Turkish President Erdoğan has stressed Turkey’s EU membership as a strategic goal amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics. While seeking increased influence, significant obstacles such as human rights issues and geopolitical relations hinder this ambition. Turkey’s relationship with the EU particularly affects Greece and Cyprus, both wary of rising Turkish dominance and changes in U.S. foreign policy under Trump. Greece is carefully maneuvering through this landscape by strengthening alliances and asserting its role in regional stability.
In a notably assertive manner, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has emphasized the urgency of Turkey’s European Union membership during a visit with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. He stated, “At every opportunity, I emphasize that this is our strategic goal,” demonstrating confidence in Turkey’s ambitions while expressing a bold disregard for the European community.
Turkey’s desire to join the European democracies is not a new phenomenon but has gained momentum in light of recent geopolitical shifts following Donald Trump’s re-emergence on the global stage. European nations are adjusting to these changing dynamics, which, unfortunately for them, bring forth unpredictable outcomes where Turkey could play a crucial role given its strategic location at the crossroads of various continents.
Erdoğan’s timing in addressing the EU is particularly calculated. The U.S.’s retreat from its leading position in Western security has created a void that other nations, particularly Turkey, are eager to fill. As history indicates, such vacuums are quickly populated, and Erdoğan is positioning Turkey to assume a dominant role amidst the emerging global order.
Erdoğan’s ambitions extend beyond regional matters, aiming to influence outcomes in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Africa, in addition to advocating for Muslim representation in pivotal international institutions. His statements imply that Turkey’s EU membership is essential for preventing the EU’s geopolitical decline, a notion deemed audacious and provocative by many European leaders. Yet, some acknowledge the necessity of engaging with Turkey given the continent’s military weaknesses.
The relationship between Turkey and the EU is plagued by significant political obstacles, such as Turkey’s human rights violations and the undermining of its rule of law. Moreover, persistent divisions regarding security policy, notably related to Cyprus and Turkey’s ties to Russia, further complicate the potential for closer cooperation.
For Greece and Cyprus, the implications of Turkey’s relationship with the EU are profound, as their EU membership has historically provided leverage in their disputes with Turkey. As they observe Ankara’s engagement with Brussels, both nations are increasingly fearful of Turkey’s potential rise in influence within European circles amidst a broader decline in adherence to international law.
In light of U.S. foreign policy under Trump, Greece remains vigilant, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis expressing confidence in U.S. support despite uncertainties. Athens is actively reinforcing its strategic alliances, particularly with Israel, which may help counterbalance Turkey’s claims and appeal to Washington’s administration.
Despite Turkey’s ambitions and attempts to integrate into Europe, Erdoğan’s connections with Hamas and other contentious issues present barriers to EU membership, which underline the complexities of the evolving geopolitical landscape in which Greece, Turkey, and the EU are enmeshed.
The evolving relationship between Turkey and the European Union holds significant importance for Greece and Cyprus, particularly regarding their longstanding disputes with Ankara. Erdoğan’s assertive approach and ambitions pose both challenges and opportunities for Europe, highlighting a precarious balance of power within the region. As Turkey seeks EU membership, serious political roadblocks remain, particularly concerning internal governance and external relations with Russia. Ultimately, Greece’s cautious response amidst these developments emphasizes their strategic positioning within an unpredictable international framework.
Original Source: www.ekathimerini.com
