Russia and Turkey Discuss New Treaty Signing: What Russia Must Offer and What Turkey Must Provide

Russia and Turkey may sign a treaty regarding Crimea, in exchange for Russia recognizing Northern Cyprus as an independent state. This was stated by Turkish professor Hasan Unal in an interview with Lenta.

The Turkish professor proposed that Russia lead the movement towards the recognition of the republic, noting that a united Cyprus could become a NATO member, which does not align with Russia's interests. In return, Turkey could restore air connectivity with Crimea and abandon the narrative that Crimea is part of Ukraine. Unal acknowledges that this is not a realistic scenario, considering the rhetoric from both sides, but he reminds that rhetoric is used so that negotiations can occur from stronger positions later on.

At the same time, Unal pointed out that Turkey does not need to recognize Crimea as part of Russia, as it is already part of the Russian state, and Russia is not obliged to ask Turkey to recognize it. He emphasized that Russia does not need to immediately recognize Northern Cyprus; it would suffice if it did not hinder those who wish to do so.