Geopolitical Briefing: Turkey
- 1 June 2025
- Turkey to host Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul on June 2, aiming for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange.
- Turkish companies expand operations in post-sanctions Syria, eyeing reconstruction opportunities amid security concerns.
- Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan meets with Russian President Putin to discuss energy cooperation and the Akkuyu nuclear plant.
- Syrian Democratic Forces’ commander expresses openness to dialogue with Turkey, signaling potential shifts in regional dynamics.
- Greece conditions Turkey’s access to EU defense funds on the revocation of longstanding war threats over Aegean disputes.(Reuters, Reuters, Reuters, Reuters, Reuters)
Turkey is set to host a new round of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul on June 2, 2025, following a proposal by Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed participation, emphasizing goals such as a complete and unconditional ceasefire, the release of prisoners, and the return of abducted children. The Turkish government, maintaining diplomatic relations with both nations, continues to position itself as a key mediator in the conflict. This role enhances Turkey’s strategic influence in regional security and diplomacy.(Reuters, Reuters)
In the economic sphere, Turkish companies are increasingly engaging in Syria’s reconstruction efforts following the lifting of U.S. sanctions. Firms in construction, transportation, and manufacturing sectors are exploring opportunities, with some already initiating operations. However, challenges such as security concerns and underdeveloped financial infrastructure persist. Turkey’s involvement in Syria’s rebuilding aligns with its strategic interests in regional economic integration and influence.(Reuters)
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss bilateral issues, including the Akkuyu nuclear power plant project and energy cooperation involving Gazprom. These discussions underscore Turkey’s efforts to secure energy resources and strengthen its energy infrastructure, contributing to national energy security and economic development.(Reuters)
In a notable development, Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), revealed direct communication with Turkey and openness to improving relations, including the possibility of meeting President Erdogan. This marks a potential shift in the longstanding tensions between Turkey and Kurdish-led forces in Syria, with implications for regional stability and Turkey’s security concerns.(Reuters)
On the European front, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated that Turkey must revoke its longstanding threat of war over Aegean territorial waters to access European Union defense funds. This condition highlights ongoing tensions between Greece and Turkey regarding maritime boundaries and could impact Turkey’s aspirations for closer ties with the EU.(Reuters)
These developments reflect Turkey’s multifaceted approach to enhancing its regional influence through diplomatic engagement, economic expansion, energy cooperation, and addressing longstanding security challenges.
