Is Turkey Sending Tanks to Ukraine?
While Turkey has been supplying Ukraine with crucial military aid, including the highly effective Bayraktar TB2 drones, there is no indication that they are sending tanks. However, the recent news that Turkey has been supplying Ukraine with cluster bombs, a controversial weapon banned by many countries, has raised questions about Ankara’s true intentions in the ongoing conflict.
A Delicate Balancing Act
Since the start of the war Turkey has walked a tightrope balancing its support for Ukraine with its economic and political ties to Russia. This strategy has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising Turkey’s diplomatic efforts while others criticize its continued economic cooperation with Russia.
The Benefits of Balancing
Turkey’s balancing act has yielded some benefits. The country has positioned itself as a key mediator in the conflict, facilitating prisoner swaps and playing a crucial role in the Black Sea grain deal. Additionally, Turkey’s economic ties with Russia have provided some short-term benefits, including increased trade and access to energy resources.
The Limits of Balancing
However, the benefits of Turkey’s balancing act are starting to wane. The country’s image has been tarnished by its continued economic cooperation with Russia, particularly in light of the atrocities committed by Russian forces in Ukraine. Additionally, Turkey’s military support to Ukraine has been overshadowed by the contributions of other NATO allies, leading to accusations that Ankara is not doing enough.
The Need for a New Strategy
As the war in Ukraine enters its second year, it is clear that Turkey needs a new regional strategy. The country should focus on strengthening its ties with the West, while also playing a more active role in deterring Russian aggression in the Black Sea. This could involve increasing military support to Ukraine, joining international sanctions against Russia, and working with NATO allies to establish a stronger naval presence in the region.
Turkey’s decision to supply Ukraine with cluster bombs is a controversial one, and it remains to be seen how this will impact the country’s relationship with both Russia and the West. However, one thing is clear: Turkey can no longer afford to sit on the fence. The country must choose a side and take a more active role in shaping the outcome of the war in Ukraine.
Additional Resources:
- Turkey Is Sending Cold War-Era Cluster Bombs to Ukraine (Foreign Policy)
- One year into the war, it’s time for Turkey to reconsider its Ukraine-Russia balancing act (Atlantic Council)
- Turkey’s Role in the Ukraine War (Council on Foreign Relations)
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is Turkey sending tanks to Ukraine?
No, there is no indication that Turkey is sending tanks to Ukraine. - Why is Turkey supplying Ukraine with cluster bombs?
Turkey has not publicly stated its reasons for supplying Ukraine with cluster bombs, but it is likely that the country sees them as a valuable weapon in the fight against Russia. - What are the risks of Turkey’s balancing act?
Turkey’s balancing act risks alienating both Russia and the West, and it could also damage the country’s reputation as a reliable partner. - What should Turkey’s new regional strategy be?
Turkey’s new regional strategy should focus on strengthening its ties with the West, while also playing a more active role in deterring Russian aggression in the Black Sea.