Turkey Considers Sending Soldiers for Peacekeeping in Ukraine

ankara, turkey - Turkey expresses willingness to contribute troops to Ukraine's peacekeeping efforts and Erdogan emphasizes Turkish military's role in European defense.

Turkey's Role in European Security

Turkey has made multiple attempts to broker a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine. Ankara asserts its indispensability in ensuring European security and advocates for inclusion in EU's joint defense efforts. The Turkish Ministry of Defense's spokesperson, Aktürk, emphasizes Turkey's essential role in making Europe a global player amidst rising security concerns in the region.

Erdogan's Stance on European Defense

President Erdogan highlights Turkey's increasing significance for Europe's global influence, especially with the unreliability of the US as NATO's main partner. He stresses the importance of respecting Ukraine's territorial integrity, echoing the EU's stance. Turkey boasts a formidable military force of nearly 800,000 soldiers, including around 380,000 reservists, and has invested in a robust, technologically advanced defense industry.

Turkey's Military Capabilities and Contributions

Ranked among the world's top ten military powers, Turkey has played a crucial role in supplying defense equipment to Ukraine, such as drones like Bayraktar. Recently, a joint venture memorandum between Italian defense company Leonardo and a Turkish firm was announced for drone development. If Turkey participates in Ukraine's peacekeeping mission, it is likely to seek concessions from Europe, although EU membership remains a distant goal.

Turkey's Diplomatic Relations and Regional Dynamics

Despite maintaining a unique relationship with Russia, Turkey refrains from endorsing Western sanctions against Russia and collaborates on projects like the Akkuyu nuclear power plant. However, conflicts between Turkey and Russia have arisen in regions like Syria, Libya, and the Caucasus, with divergent interests in the Black Sea region.