Key facts
- European allies hope Turkish President Erdoğan's relationship with U.S. President Trump will lead to a less contentious NATO summit.
- Trump believes maintaining a cordial relationship with difficult leaders like Erdoğan provides greater leverage.
- Erdoğan is actively seeking to portray himself as a crucial link between NATO and the Middle East, and between East and West.
- Turkey's acquisition of Russian S-400 missile defense systems continues to block its purchase of F-35 fighter jets.
European nations are looking to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to smooth relations with U.S. President Donald Trump at an upcoming NATO summit, hoping his personal rapport with Trump will prevent the event from being marred by scandal or public criticism. Analysts suggest Trump views his relationship with Erdoğan pragmatically, believing that maintaining cordial ties with difficult leaders offers greater influence and leverage.
According to a senior White House official, Trump sees his engagement with Erdoğan as an effort 'to be nice' and has always intended to participate. This approach, the official noted, could prevent blowups at the summit. The relationship between the two leaders is described as strong, which is considered significant.
Erdoğan himself is reportedly orchestrating a role as a bridge between East and West, and within NATO. He recently invited Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to Ankara, positioning Turkey as a key connector to a reordered Middle East. In a speech, Erdoğan advocated for an 'unconditional' security network spanning from Texas to Ankara.
One former senior administration official observed that Erdoğan relishes such opportunities to perform as a global leader, not just of Turkey but of the Muslim world and as a crucial interlocutor between various global blocs, drawing parallels to the Ottoman sultans. This perceived historical destiny and unique presentational ability are central to his role.
Despite the positive personal dynamics between Trump and Erdoğan, a primary objective for the Turkish president remains elusive: taking possession of the F-35 fighter jets ordered nearly two decades ago. The sale has been blocked due to Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 missile defense system.