During an exclusive interview with NBC News, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that Ukraine’s proposal for NATO membership should not be rushed, and that the U.S. and other Western alliance members were not in favor of Ukraine becoming a member state. This statement is likely disappointing for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who is set to present his proposal for NATO membership to President Joe Biden. Erdoğan emphasized that any decision regarding NATO membership should consider the opinions of other alliance members and should not be made hastily.
Erdoğan’s comments come amidst expanding relations between Turkey and Russia, with Erdoğan acknowledging that their relationship is multi-dimensional and continuously growing. He also referenced his acceptance of an invitation to the BRICS conference in Russia next month, demonstrating Turkey’s openness to engagement with the bloc of developing countries led by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Furthermore, Erdoğan criticized Western countries for their silence in the face of Israeli actions in Gaza and accused some NATO allies of siding with Israel. He highlighted the complexities of alliances and relations in the global arena and expressed his willingness to work with any administration that wins the White House in the future.
Overall, Erdoğan’s comments showcase the delicate balance and challenges involved in navigating international relations, particularly in the context of NATO membership, bilateral relations with Russia, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
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