As President Donald Trump prepares to attend the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan remains a significant figure in alliance politics. Trump has referred to Erdoğan as 'a friend' and 'a respected leader,' which may influence defense discussions between the United States and Turkey, particularly regarding Turkey's efforts to enhance military cooperation. Erdoğan has been a pivotal player in NATO, especially as the geopolitical landscape shifts due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and regional instability.
Erdoğan has held power in Turkey for over two decades, transitioning from an Islamist mayor to a pro-European reformer, then to a nationalist leader, and now a key NATO power broker. Supporters credit him with restoring Turkey's global standing, while critics argue that he has undermined democratic institutions by targeting political opponents and dissenters.
Experts suggest that Erdoğan is not driven by a single ideology but rather adapts his political stance to maintain power. His political journey began with the founding of the Justice and Development Party (AKP) in 2001, where he initially positioned himself as a 'conservative democrat' focused on economic reform and EU integration. Over time, he shifted towards a more nationalist and Islamist narrative, particularly following the Arab Spring and his increasing support for political Islam.
Erdoğan's foreign policy has also evolved, marked by a shift from anti-Western rhetoric to repairing relations with the U.S. and Europe. This change comes as Turkey's strategic importance has grown, particularly in the context of NATO and the Black Sea region. Former U.S. Ambassador to Turkey James Jeffrey noted Turkey's critical role in supporting Ukraine and controlling naval passage through the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits.
Despite Erdoğan's political flexibility, Human Rights Watch has raised concerns about his government's increasing authoritarianism and the suppression of dissent. As Turkey's strategic value to NATO rises, discussions about its human rights record have diminished. Observers note that Erdoğan's policies appear primarily designed to maintain his grip on power, reflecting a lack of a cohesive ideological framework.