04.03.2025 19:30
The Greek newspaper Kathimerini reported that the United States' intention to reduce its military presence in Europe presents significant opportunities for Turkey to play a role in European security, given the international conditions.
In an evaluation published in the Greek newspaper Kathimerini, signed by Stavros Yannidis, striking statements regarding Turkey were included.
"ANKARA HAS EMERGED AS A POTENTIAL GUARANTOR OF EUROPE"
At the beginning of the 2020s, it was argued that it was impossible for France, Germany, the UK, and other European Union (EU) countries to sit at the table with Turkey for Europe's security architecture, but now it has been stated that Ankara has emerged as a potential guarantor of Europe's defense autonomy.
"THE REDUCTION OF THE US MILITARY PRESENCE IN EUROPE IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR TURKEY"
The evaluation stated, "Time and international conditions have changed. The fact that the US has made its intention to reduce its military footprint on the old continent (Europe) clear creates a first-class opportunity for Turkey. Not only for its return to the 'salons' of Europe but also to play a leading role in NATO and Europe."
"ERDOĞAN AND FIDAN SAY ONLY TURKEY CAN SAVE EUROPE FROM A DEADLOCK"
In the evaluation, it was pointed out that Greece's defense industry has not been able to keep pace with the speed required by international developments, stating, "While the old continent struggles to stand on its own feet in terms of defense, through President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, it is said that only Turkey can save Europe from a deadlock in the economy, defense, and politics."
"TURKISH DEFENSE INDUSTRY HAS RAPIDLY BECOME A GIANT IN THE ARMS MARKET"
The evaluation noted that the acquisition of the Italian company Piaggio Aerospace by Baykar and the successes in the defense industry, such as Bayraktar TB2, Bayraktar AKINCI, and Bayraktar KIZILELMA, demonstrate that the Turkish defense industry has rapidly become a giant in the arms market.