President Donald Trump confirmed his participation in the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey. His primary reason for attending is to meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Trump referred to Erdoğan as a friend and expressed interest in strengthening defense ties between the two nations.
Historical Tensions and New Alliances
The relationship between the United States and Turkey has seen challenges. In 2019, after Turkey acquired the Russian S-400 air defense system, the US removed Turkey from the F-35 fighter jet program. Sanctions followed against Turkey’s defense procurement agency, marking Turkey as a challenging NATO ally. Nevertheless, Turkey’s strategic importance has grown, especially as NATO faces issues like the Russian threat, Middle Eastern instability, and Black Sea dynamics.
Trump’s Strategic Interests
Former US Ambassador to Turkey James Jeffrey stated the Trump administration values Turkey highly. Turkey’s geopolitical importance and military strength make it essential for the US in maintaining regional influence. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly emphasized Trump’s positive relationship with Erdoğan, suggesting closer collaboration.
“President Trump has a great relationship with President Erdoğan of Turkey, who has been an incredible partner in the region,” Anna Kelly stated.
Changing NATO Dynamics
NATO is refocusing on collective defense, moving away from its previous counterterrorism emphasis. The alliance agreed on a new defense spending target of 5% of GDP by 2025. Turkey, with NATO’s second-largest military, is playing an increasingly vital role.
Can Kasapoğlu from the Hudson Institute highlighted that nations contributing significant military power to NATO will receive preferential treatment. This is particularly relevant as NATO wants allies that enhance its military capabilities.
Turkey’s Military and Geopolitical Influence
Turkey’s military presence and strategic positioning enhance its value to NATO. It controls critical waterways and borders several volatile regions. Analysts like Rich Outzen assert that NATO cannot ensure security without integrating Turkey fully.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine elevated Turkey’s strategic importance. Turkey’s enforcement of the Montreux Convention and military support to Ukraine have been key factors in regional security dynamics. Analysts suggest Turkey’s role in opposing the Assad regime in Syria also aligned it closer with US interests.
Controversies and Criticisms
Despite its strategic role, Turkey’s foreign policies under Erdoğan have diverged from NATO norms. Its ties with Russia and support for Hamas present challenges to US-Turkey relations. Critics, including experts like Sinan Ciddi, argue these actions complicate efforts to deepen defense relationships.
Within the US, congressional concerns persist, particularly regarding proposed arms sales to Turkey. The $700 million sale of fighter jet engines has faced scrutiny, especially given Turkey’s possession of the S-400 system.
Former Ambassador Jeffrey noted that although the F-110 fighter engine sale is manageable, integrating Turkey back into the F-35 program is complex due to technological security risks posed by the S-400 system.
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