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The largest compared to that of any European country, the Turkish military could play a key role in Europe's security.
2025-02-22 20:50:41 / BOTA
As European leaders seek to bolster their militaries amid growing questions about the U.S. commitment to defending Europe, Turkey, which boasts the second-largest military in NATO, could play a key role in Europe's plans, particularly for peacekeeping operations in Ukraine. Voice of America correspondent Dorian Jones reported from Istanbul.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky used his visit to Turkey on Tuesday to emphasize the importance of sending troops from allied countries to guarantee any peace agreement reached with Russia.
"Two issues are very important: a strong Ukrainian army and the deployments in Ukraine of armies from Europe and the United States, our partners, " he said.
Mr. Zelenskyy said he discussed the issue with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, but that it is too early to reveal the results of the talks.
While Mr. Erdogan has close ties with Mr. Zelensky, the Turkish leader has also maintained good relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, with the second-largest army in NATO, Turkey is well-positioned to support Ukraine.
"If the parties agree, Turkey can send our troops to peacekeeping operations. Why do I say this? Turkey was part of many UN peacekeeping operations and the Turkish military is very powerful," says Turkish presidential advisor Mesut Casin.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov ruled out sending NATO peacekeeping troops to Ukraine. But the importance of the Turkish military to European security could grow, with the United States pushing for Europe to take more responsibility for its defense.
"We think this is an important part of being together in a cooperative alliance, for the Europeans to increase engagement while America focuses on areas of the world that are at great risk," said US Vice President JD Vance.
Turkey's poor human rights record has strained relations with the European Union, but analysts say shared concerns about Russia are creating opportunities for security cooperation.
"Turkey and European countries have the same geostrategic interests. If you ask Turkey's political leaders, for them, the main threat to the security, stability and integrity of the country remains Russia," says Federico Donelli from the University of Trieste.
European leaders met this week to discuss the security threat facing the continent. With a massive army compared to any European army, Ankara says it can play a key role in defending Europe./ VOA
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