Questions of Turkish Realignment Continue
Despite continuing concern over President Erdogan's expansionist policy, speculation about an international realignment has entered the news this week. The Nagorno-Karabakh peace deal is undoubtedly a victory for Turkish forces. The deal, however, involves a joint Russian-Turkish military centre. This new cooperation between the two countries adds to mounting evidence that Turkey is joining the 'Russia Camp' in international politics.
Russian S-400 system arrives in Turkey. Photo Credit: Reuters
Mike Pompeo, US Secretary of State, decided not to include Ankara on his recent trip to the region. A significant decision because Ankara was removed from Secretary Pompeo's itinerary after Turkey test-fired Russian air defence systems, despite the threat of US sanctions. Turkey purchased the Russian S-400 system after the US refused to sell them the Patriot system.
Turkey's work with Russia in Syria has brought them closer. Despite claims that Turkey prefers the protection of NATO, the advantages of aligning with Russia amidst growing tensions with the West are appealing. Speculation is rife that a US Biden deal with Turkey to sell the Patriot system would prevent a potential realignment.
Interestingly, the news surrounding this issue speaks to a bipolar hegemony of the international community with either US or Russian alignment.
Sources
https://euobserver.com/foreign/150151
https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/the-arab-states-fighting-back-against-turkey-s-neo-ottomanism-
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/turkey-sanctions-united-states-russia-s400-system