The Repercussions of the Ukrainian War on Russian-Turkish Relations

Abstract

This study examines the repercussions of the Ukraine war on the trajectory of Russian–Turkish bilateral relations, in light of the interests and objectives shaping the nature of this relationship on the one hand, and the divergence of positions regarding Russia’s war on Ukraine on the other. Turkey maintains strategic relations and economic and military partnerships with Russia, which has led Ankara to adopt a policy of neutrality during the war, out of concern for its interconnected interests with the Russian side. However, this does not preclude Turkey from continuing to play an active role within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), particularly as the war in Ukraine has contributed to reshaping the pattern of interaction between Russia and Turkey within an international environment characterized by escalating polarization and its impact on the balance of power. The study also highlights the central research problem concerning the extent to which both parties are capable of maintaining a strategic pattern of relations amid the ongoing international escalation and competition in the region.