EU Unveils Ambitious Plan for Post-Ukraine Strategic Alliance with Turkey
Brussels Seeks ‘Powerful Partnership’ with Ankara, Recognizing its Pivotal Role in Future European Security Architecture
The European Union is signaling a strategic pivot towards revitalizing its often-strained relationship with Turkey, anticipating Ankara’s indispensable role in a post-Ukraine conflict landscape. According to Politico, EU Commissioner for Development Marta Kos indicated that Brussels will require a “powerful partnership” with Turkey once hostilities in Ukraine cease.
Rekindling a Vital Alliance
In a written statement ahead of a recent two-day visit to Ankara, Kos emphasized the profound shifts expected across Europe. “Peace in Ukraine will change Europe’s realities, especially in the Black Sea region,” she stated. “Turkey will be a very important partner for us. Preparing for peace and stability in Europe requires preparing a powerful partnership with Turkey.”
Navigating a Complex History
The relationship between Ankara and Brussels has been characterized by significant friction in recent years. Stalled EU accession talks, disputes over the customs union, migration tensions, and divergences in foreign policy have strained ties. The EU has also previously accused Turkey of “democratic backsliding,” a label Ankara vehemently rejects as politically motivated, often accusing Brussels of double standards.
Turkey’s Strategic Imperative in a New Europe
Despite past disagreements, the EU now recognizes Turkey’s unique geopolitical leverage. Kos highlighted Ankara’s potential as a key partner in the post-war order, particularly its capacity as a peace-keeping force and an influential regional actor in the critical Black Sea area. This acknowledgment underscores a recalibration of European strategy, prioritizing stability and regional influence in a reconfigured geopolitical environment.
Ankara’s Balanced Diplomacy
Turkey, a NATO member, has maintained a distinct foreign policy approach amidst the Ukraine conflict. It has notably refrained from joining Western sanctions against Russia, preserving close energy, trade, and diplomatic ties with Moscow, upon which it relies for gas and hosts the Akkuyu nuclear power plant.
Ankara has consistently positioned itself as a neutral mediator, successfully hosting Russia-Ukraine talks in Istanbul and brokering the now-lapsed Black Sea Grain Initiative in 2022. Turkey repeatedly stresses its commitment to balanced relations with both Moscow and Kyiv, presenting itself as a guarantor of regional stability. While no formal commitments have been made, Ankara has expressed a conditional willingness to participate in post-conflict security or peacekeeping operations in Ukraine, contingent upon a political agreement and an international mandate.
Economic Re-engagement on the Horizon
In a tangible sign of thawing relations, Kos also announced that the European Investment Bank (EIB) would resume lending to Turkey. This includes a €200 million loan for renewable energy projects, marking the EIB’s return to providing new loans after a suspension in 2019 due to disputes concerning Cyprus. This economic gesture signals a broader effort to rebuild trust and cooperation.
The EU’s overtures underscore a recognition of Turkey’s indispensable role in shaping the future security and stability of the European continent and the broader Black Sea region as the focus shifts towards a potential post-conflict era.