Erdogan's Assertive Foreign Policy and Its Implications

In recent years, Turkey's foreign policy under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has taken a notably assertive turn, marking a significant departure from its previous strategy of "zero problems with neighbors." This shift has seen Turkey engaging in military interventions across Azerbaijan, Iraq, Libya, and Syria, as well as extending its influence through the supply of drones to countries like Ethiopia and Ukraine. Such actions underscore Turkey's ambition to assert itself as a dominant regional and, increasingly, a global player.

Erdogan's government, guided by the Justice and Development Party (AKP), has pursued an aggressive expansion of Turkey's military and diplomatic footprint. The interventions in Azerbaijan and Libya, for instance, not only highlight Turkey's willingness to use military force to project power but also its interest in influencing the geopolitical landscape far beyond its borders. The use of drones, particularly in Ukraine, showcases Turkey's growing role in international military and security dynamics, offering a blend of hard power projection and diplomatic leverage.

This assertive stance abroad mirrors a broader trend of authoritarian consolidation at home. Erdogan and the AKP have gradually tightened their grip on power, sidelining opposition and suppressing dissent. The foreign policy maneuvers can be seen as an extension of this domestic strategy, aiming to rally nationalistic support and deflect attention from internal issues by projecting strength abroad.

Turkey's assertive foreign policy has significant implications for its relations with global and regional powers. Its military engagements have sometimes put it at odds with NATO allies, particularly the United States, while its involvement in Syria and Libya has led to tensions with Russia, despite a complex partnership between the two countries. Additionally, Turkey's support for Azerbaijan in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has strained relations with Armenia and its allies.

Moreover, Turkey's strategic ambitions are reflected in its quest for energy independence and security, as evidenced by its activities in the Eastern Mediterranean. The search for hydrocarbon resources has led to disputes with Greece and Cyprus, complicating its relationship with the European Union.

Erdogan's foreign policy is a high-stakes gambit that seeks to position Turkey as a central figure in regional and global affairs. While this approach has bolstered Turkey's strategic depth and military capabilities, it also risks isolating the country from traditional allies and partners. As Turkey continues to navigate these complex geopolitical waters, the international community remains watchful of Erdogan's next moves and their broader implications for regional stability and global dynamics.