Can tensions between Turkey and NATO be contained?
Two US senators are demanding sanctions after reports Turkey has tested its Russian-built S-400 defence system.
For decades, Turkey’s membership to NATO has been seen as a stabilising force.
NATO helped anchor the country in the western world and cool tensions with neighbouring Greece.
But 21st century Turkey is a more assertive power.
It has interests in the Middle East and Central Asia – and those may not sit comfortably with its role in NATO.
Last year, NATO expelled Turkey from its programme to build the F-35 fighter jet, designed for use throughout the alliance.
That followed Ankara’s decision to buy a sophisticated Russian anti-aircraft defence system, the S-400.
This week two US senators – a Republican and a Democrat – sent the state department a letter demanding sanctions on Turkey after reports that the S-400 was used to track Greek fighter jets during a naval exercise in the eastern Mediterranean.
All of which begs the question: What do Turkey and NATO want from each other? And can those interests be reconciled?
Presenter: Mohammed Jamjoom
Guests:
Robert Hunter – former United States ambassador to NATO
Fabrice Pothier – International Institute of Strategic Studies, and former director of policy planning at NATO
Yusuf Alabarda – retired colonel, Turkish Armed Forces