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Short Communication | Political Science | Turkey | Volume 11 Issue 5, May 2022

Turkey's Options for Finland and Sweden's NATO Membership Applications

Abdullah Murat Tuncer ^[7]

Abstract: Russia's aggressive attitude and attempt to invade Ukraine aroused concern in Russia and neighboring countries. Sweden and Finland applied for NATO membership because NATO member states are more protected against aggressive behavior. However, while Turkey used to be particularly positive towards Finland, Turkish President Erdogan's change of attitude created a problematic situation. How can Turkey, or Erdogan, use this difficult situation to benefit himself as the 2023 elections are approaching? Erdogan has several options. In addition to alternatives such as re-involving in the F35 project, giving urgent permission to purchase Patriot air defense systems, preventing support to the PKK/YPG terrorist organization, deportation of PKK terrorist organization members in Sweden, it may also request sizeable financial support. It is also crucial whether Sweden, Finland, and other NATO countries accept Turkey's demands. Can Erdogan risk his favorable decision to jeopardize his relations with Russia? Turkey is more likely to decide in the personal interests of Erdogan, who runs the country autocratically. The importance of the final decision in terms of international relations and Turkey's domestic politics is discussed. It should be noted that the Istanbul Gezi defendants, whom the United States wants to be released from prison, are also in Turkey's hands as a trump card.

Keywords: NATO, Turkey, Finland and Sweden, NATO Membership, Russia, Diplomacy, International relations

Edition: Volume 11 Issue 5, May 2022,

Pages: 1579 - 1582

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