Erdogan Plays Both Sides of the Conflict: The National Interest

The Biden administration has made significant efforts to strengthen transatlantic unity to punish Russia for its invasion of Ukraine and limit its future capabilities for aggression against other countries. However, Turkey, a NATO member, remains the only unaligned ally. Turkey criticizes Russia for its invasion of Ukraine but refuses to join multilateral sanctions, writes The National Interest.

“Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is playing both sides of the conflict to enhance his regional influence and economic interests. Turkey is violating international consensus. Erdogan believes that maintaining economic ties with Russia and Ukraine will mitigate the conflict's impact on Turkey’s economy and yield political benefits for him,” emphasizes the article's author, David Phillips, who served as an advisor during the administrations of three U.S. presidents.

As the American expert points out, engaging in business with Russia is a risky decision for Turkey. At the same time, Phillips highlights that Turkey is Russia's fifth-largest export market, while Russia is Turkey's tenth-largest market.