As Donald Trump prepares to begin his new term as U.S. president, the geopolitical landscape is undergoing significant transformations, particularly in Europe and its neighboring regions. This shift, driven by factors like Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and the evolving dynamics in the Middle East, underscores the urgent need for the European Union (EU) to redefine its security strategy—one that includes closer cooperation with Turkey.
EU-Turkey Security Dialogue: A Timely Imperative
Chatham House senior consulting fellow Galip Dalay recently argued that Europe must reassess Turkey’s role within its security framework. Highlighting uncertainties around Trump’s NATO commitment, Dalay suggests that Turkey’s inclusion in European security efforts is critical.
“Trump’s return might provide much-needed impetus for the EU and Turkey to finally engage in more serious dialogues on European security and broader foreign and security policy cooperation,” Dalay stated, referencing the complex security environment marked by the war in Ukraine and changing geopolitical realities.
Erdogan’s Strategic Maneuvering
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has capitalized on these shifts, asserting Turkey’s indispensability to European defense. Speaking at the European Political Community summit in Budapest, Erdogan emphasized:
“Türkiye’s full inclusion in the European Union’s defense efforts is indispensable for Europe’s peace and security.”
Erdogan’s confidence is fueled by Turkey’s position as NATO’s second-largest military power and the largest land force in the bloc, a role that could become even more critical should the U.S. reconsider its NATO commitments under Trump.
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