ISTANBUL:
Turkey, home to NATO’s second-largest military and a strategic Black Sea coastline, is positioning itself as a pivotal player in Europe’s security landscape, particularly in light of the United States’ shifting focus away from the region.
Following two rounds of high-level discussions on Ukraine and regional security in response to Washington’s policy changes, Ankara has emphasized that Europe’s defense framework cannot be solidified without its active participation.
“It is inconceivable to establish European security without Turkey,” President Recep Tayyip Erdogan asserted after the recent London summit. He further stressed that without Turkey’s involvement, “it is becoming increasingly impossible for Europe to maintain its role as a global actor.”
Turkey’s strategic location and military capabilities make it a critical ally in addressing regional security challenges, particularly in the Black Sea and Eastern Europe. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, Ankara’s role in shaping Europe’s defense strategy is expected to grow significantly.
