Pompeo Questions Turkey's Geopolitical Loyalty at Cyprus Forum
Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo delivered pointed criticism of Turkey’s foreign and defense policies during an economic forum held in Cyprus. His remarks focused on what he described as Ankara’s shifting geopolitical stance, increasingly inconsistent with its role as a NATO ally.
Concerns Over Turkey’s Strategic Direction
Pompeo expressed deep concern about Turkey’s effort to maintain strong military and diplomatic ties with both NATO members and Russia. He argued that this dual approach undermines expectations within the Western security architecture.
“Western powers have not succeeded in convincing Ankara that NATO membership and the ownership of Russian weapons are incompatible positions that compromise alliance security,” he said.
He singled out Turkey’s purchase of the Russian S-400 air defense system as a critical misstep. This decision, Pompeo noted, directly resulted in the United States removing Turkey from the F-35 fighter jet program.
Questioning Turkey’s Reliability as a Partner
Pompeo questioned Turkey’s dependability as a Western partner, emphasizing its ongoing prioritization of defense ties with Moscow. He warned that such a course places strain on NATO’s internal trust and unity.
Views on the Cyprus Dispute
Addressing the long-standing division of Cyprus, Pompeo suggested that the lack of progress in resolving the dispute stems largely from Turkish leadership, implying a persistent reluctance from Ankara to support constructive diplomatic efforts.
Author’s summary: Pompeo’s remarks at the Cyprus forum underscored his view that Turkey’s balancing act between NATO and Russia erodes Western trust and questions its strategic reliability.