Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has ignited controversy by criticizing Türkiye at an economic forum held in Greek Cyprus. He questioned Türkiye's geopolitical stance and defense procurement choices during his speech.
Pompeo expressed unease about Türkiye maintaining diplomatic and military ties with both NATO allies and Russia. He described this dual approach as conflicting with what Western countries expect.
Addressing the long-standing Cyprus issue, Pompeo claimed that Turkish Cypriots support a comprehensive settlement, while the Turkish leadership does not demonstrate the same level of commitment. His remarks echoed Greek Cypriot views on the political deadlock and stalled peace negotiations on the island.
Pompeo highlighted Türkiye's purchase of Russian defense systems, criticizing Western powers for failing to convince Ankara that NATO membership and owning Russian weapons are incompatible.
"Western powers had failed to persuade Ankara that NATO membership and Russian weapons ownership represent incompatible positions."
These comments underscore ongoing tensions within NATO concerning Türkiye's defense policies and geopolitical alignment amid changing global security dynamics.
Pompeo's critique from a Greek Cyprus platform intensifies existing tensions by challenging Türkiye's foreign policy and defense decisions amid complex regional disputes.