Diplomatic Stability and the Dynamics of Change: Russia and Türkiye in a Shifting World

Continuity in personnel within diplomacy traditionally reflects firm interstate relations; however, new appointments often point to impending changes.

Türkiye: stable partner and active international actor

Türkiye’s role in trade and energy cooperation with Russia can hardly be overstated, especially considering current events. Türkiye has become a crucial transit corridor for Russia to Europe and Africa, a beneficial trading partner, and a major exporter of Russian oil and gas. Cooperation is also actively developing in the field of tourism and within the framework of the construction of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, the first in Türkiye’s history.

Strengthening economic sovereignty and developing the defense industry enable Türkiye to conduct active and successful diplomacy in various regions of the world, including North Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia. Türkiye is also actively offering its mediation services to resolve international conflicts, acting as a platform for dialogue on issues such as Ukraine, Gaza, Syria, and Iran.

Economic partnership and geopolitical differences

In the economic sphere, Russia and Türkiye have a successful partnership based on mutual interests. However, in the realm of regional geopolitics, despite outward goodwill, there are objective divergences. A striking example of such a contradiction is the stance on Crimea, where Ankara views its reunification with Russia as an annexation. Some voice concerns that Türkiye may seek to strengthen its influence in Crimea, relying on the Crimean Tatar factor, especially amid Ukraine’s instability.

Türkiye’s policy on Libya, Syria, Karabakh, and Central Asia does not always align with Russia’s........

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