Turkey considers peacekeeping role in Ukraine amid tensions
Turkey may send peacekeeping forces to Ukraine, but only with Russia's consent and after a UN Security Council resolution is adopted, claims Professor Deniz Tansi from Yeditepe University.
According to the Polish Press Agency, Turkey, which possesses the second-largest army in NATO, is considering sending peacekeeping forces to Ukraine. However, as Professor Deniz Tansi from Yeditepe University emphasizes, 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 occur.
The main deciding factor is the UN Security Council resolution, which also means it must be supported by Russia, explained Professor Deniz Tansi, as 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 demonizing 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 alone with Russia, Turkey might step in as a mediator. Our country can communicate with all parties, the expert indicated.
Professor Tansi emphasizes 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 reminded Europeans of the need to pursue security, 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 talks, it was conveyed that Turkey would not join any peacekeeping mission if not involved in the discussions and preparations for its establishment. Last Wednesday at 3:00 PM Eastern Time, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Ankara will play a crucial role in establishing peace and maintaining a ceasefire in Ukraine.
