Turkey weighs peacekeeping role in Ukraine, seeks Russia's nod
Turkey may send peacekeeping forces to Ukraine, but only with Russia's consent and following the adoption of a UN Security Council resolution, claims Professor Deniz Tansi from Yeditepe University.
According to the Polish Press Agency, Turkey, which has the second-largest army in NATO, is considering the possibility of sending peacekeeping forces to Ukraine. However, as Professor Deniz Tansi from Yeditepe University emphasises, a key condition is the adoption of a UN Security Council resolution backed by Russia. Without this, a serious crisis in Ankara-Moscow relations could arise.
The main deciding factor is the UN Security Council resolution; this also means support from Russia - explained Professor Deniz Tansi, quoted by PAP.
Since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine, Turkey has been trying to maintain a balance in relations with Ukraine and Russia. Professor Tansi notes that Turkey supports Ukraine's territorial integrity while avoiding demonising Russia.
Relations with the USA
An expert from Yeditepe University highlights the complicated relations between Turkey and the USA. He mentions contentious points, such as the situation in Cyprus or US support for Kurdish forces. Nonetheless, in the context of the Ukrainian crisis, Turkish-American relations seem more aligned than in other regions.
However, if the USA treats Ukraine selectively and leaves it to deal alone with Russia, Turkey might step in as a mediator. Because our country can communicate with all parties - the expert indicated.
Professor Tansi emphasises that Turkey could play a significant role in Europe's security framework if the EU decides to engage more in defensive policy and accept Turkey as a full member. The war in Ukraine has highlighted the need for European security initiatives, which may open new opportunities for Turkey.
Conditions for the peace mission
According to Bloomberg, Turkey is ready to send soldiers to Ukraine as part of peacekeeping forces, but only on the condition of participating in all talks and preparations regarding the mission. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reportedly discussed this issue with the Ukrainian president and the Russian foreign minister.
During the discussions, it was conveyed that Turkey would not join any peacekeeping mission if not involved in the discussions and preparations for its establishment. Last Wednesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Ankara will play a crucial role in establishing peace and maintaining a ceasefire in Ukraine.
