Pompeo Criticizes Turkey's Geopolitical Stance at Cyprus Economic Forum
Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo strongly criticized Turkey during an economic forum held in Cyprus. He focused on what he described as Ankara’s increasingly conflicting geopolitical direction relative to its role as a NATO ally.
Concerns Over Turkey’s Dual Alliances
Pompeo expressed particular concern about Turkey’s efforts to maintain close diplomatic and military ties with both NATO countries and Russia at the same time. He described this dual approach as fundamentally at odds with the security principles expected by Western allies.
"Western powers have been unsuccessful in persuading Ankara that NATO membership and ownership of Russian weapons represent incompatible positions that compromise alliance security."
Controversy Over S-400 Air Defense System
Pompeo pointed to Turkey’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 air defense system as a key issue. This decision led directly to the US removing Turkey from the F-35 fighter jet program, highlighting tensions between Ankara and Western defense policies.
Questioning Turkey’s Reliability as a Western Ally
The former US diplomat questioned Turkey’s long-term dependability as a Western partner, given its continued emphasis on maintaining strong ties with Moscow, especially in defense matters.
Remarks on the Cyprus Dispute
Pompeo also commented on the ongoing Cyprus conflict, attributing the lack of progress primarily to Turkish leadership.
"The onus for a lack of progress [in the Cyprus dispute] rests with Turkish leadership."
Author’s Summary
Pompeo’s remarks reflect deep concerns over Turkey’s geopolitical choices, emphasizing how its alignment with Russia challenges its role as a trusted NATO ally and complicates regional stability.