Losing Turkey? Implications of a Failed Turkish EU Bid
Abstract
Despite a formal relationship with the EU that spans over fifty years, Turkey's bid for full membership remains stalled in political deadlock and faces growing resistance in some European capitals based on cultural grounds. This has led many observers, including the U.S. secretary of defense, to the conclusion that the EU is responsible for pushing Turkey to the East. This view has been heavily influenced by recent Turkish actions in the region. Foremost among them has been the public and acrimonious deterioration of relations between Turkey and Israel, Turkey's independent negotiation with Iran over its nuclear program, and Turkey's increasingly close relationship with Russia. This paper considers the issue of Turkey "turning East" by looking closely at Turkey?s foreign policy and examining those areas where Turkish and U.S. foreign policy objectives might come into conflict. As Turkey increasingly grows into its role as a key regional player, the U.S. must protect its national interests in the region and determine the best approach in managing its relations with Turkey. This will require a nuanced touch that walks the fine line between accommodation and confrontation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 24, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA543995
Entities
People
- Bradley E. Jones
Organizations
- United States Army War College