Turkey could be a vital partner as Europe, Ukraine seek new security framework

Diplomats and analysts assert that Turkey has become a crucial potential ally in reshaping European security, as Europe races to strengthen its defense and seek assurances for Ukraine in any upcoming ceasefire agreement advocated by the United States.

European nations have been disturbed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to conclude the Ukraine conflict, which has disrupted Washington’s diplomacy, stalled Russia’s isolation with a chance for reconciliation, increased pressure on Kyiv following unsuccessful discussions with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, and jeopardized transatlantic relations.

Analysts indicate that Europe’s efforts to sustain Ukraine’s military strength and establish security guarantees, alongside enhancing its own defense independently from Washington, have presented Turkey with a unique chance to strengthen its relations with Europe, even with ongoing tensions regarding the rule of law, maritime concerns with Greece and Cyprus, and Ankara’s prolonged EU membership aspirations.

Following discussions with Erdogan in Ankara on Wednesday, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated he presented a “clear proposal for Turkey to assume the highest level of co-responsibility” for peace in Ukraine and regional stability.

A high-ranking European diplomat stated that Turkey holds “very significant perspectives” on the requirements for peace in Ukraine.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan successfully maintained a balance in his relationship with both Zelenskiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin during the war, the diplomat stated, “therefore, involving him is logical.”

Turkey, a NATO member, possesses the second largest army in the alliance. In recent years, it has started manufacturing its own jets, tanks, and naval vessels, and it sells armed drones worldwide, including to Ukraine. The total value of its defence industry exports reached $7.1 billion in 2024.

In a flurry of discussions and resolutions since Trump’s comeback in January, various European countries contemplated creating a “coalition of the willing” to assist Ukraine. France has proposed the possibility of broadening its nuclear protection to allies.

A Turkish Defence Ministry official said Ankara and Europe had common interests, from counter-terrorism to migration, and Turkey’s full participation in EU defence efforts was criticial for Europe to be a global actor, adding Turkey was ready to do what it can to help form the new security framework.