Turkey’s Middlepowermanship, Foreign Policy Transformation and Mediation Efforts in the Russia-Ukraine War Cover Image

Turkey’s Middlepowermanship, Foreign Policy Transformation and Mediation Efforts in the Russia-Ukraine War
Turkey’s Middlepowermanship, Foreign Policy Transformation and Mediation Efforts in the Russia-Ukraine War

Author(s): Jakub Wódka
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Social Sciences, Economy
Published by: Centrum Europejskie Uniwersytetu Warszawskiego
Keywords: Turkey; Russia; Ukraine; Mediation; Middle Powers

Summary/Abstract: This article provides insight into Turkey’s strategic pursuit of a more active and influential role as a mediator in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Turkey, positioning itself as a middle power, seeks to elevate its global standing. This involves a delicate diplomatic balancing act in its foreign policy approach towards both Russia and Ukraine. The equilibrium thus achieved positions Turkey as a natural mediator, serving as a catalyst for brokering a peace initiative among the conflicting parties. Ankara’s diplomatic activism is not just a tactical move but also a manifestation of Turkey’s broader global ambitions, underlining its commitment to playing a more significant role in shaping international affairs. These aspirations clash with a rising penchant in Turkey to pursue a more militaristic and coercive foreign policy, which stands in contradiction to the role of a benign power.

  • Issue Year: 27/2023
  • Issue No: 4
  • Page Range: 215-233
  • Page Count: 19
  • Language: English