Erdogan Hosts Russia-Ukraine Talks Amid Turkey Protests

Turkey, under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is emerging as a pivotal international diplomatic hub, hosting significant talks such as the first direct Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations in three years and facilitating Iranian nuclear discussions. Erdogan's close relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump has bolstered Turkey's regional influence, enabling it to play a central role in stabilizing Eastern Europe and the Middle East, including leveraging gains in Syria following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. Despite this rising global stature, Erdogan faces intense domestic criticism and unrest, particularly after the arrest of his main political rival, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, leading to widespread protests over perceived authoritarian practices. Analysts note Erdogan's pattern of emphasizing foreign policy successes during times of internal political and economic difficulties, such as delaying NATO expansion approval amid soaring inflation. His strategic diplomacy has not only enhanced Turkey's international standing but also raised concerns about the interplay between his domestic political ambitions and foreign policy moves. This duality underscores Erdogan's complex role as both a global statesman and a controversial domestic leader.