The Bulletin May 20, 2025
The rundown: As President Trump seeks to reshape Washington's foreign policy in the Middle East, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has emerged as a key global partner. Here's how.
Why it matters: Credited with brokering talks in conflicts from Syria to Ukraine, Erdoğan's experience, reliability and strategic influence make him central to Trump's international agenda. Under Erdoğan's leadership, Turkey has positioned itself as a crucial mediator in regional crises, while also expanding its diplomatic and military influence. Despite past tensions, Trump views Erdoğan as a strong, transactional ally aligned with U.S. interests, especially amid growing skepticism of traditional European partners. Turkey's strategic location, military assertiveness and Erdoğan's longevity in power have boosted its relevance on the world stage.
Read more in-depth coverage:
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TL/DR: Over the past week alone, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has proved himself a crucial player on several geopolitical fronts.
What happens now? This evolving partnership signals a pragmatic realignment in U.S. diplomacy, with Türkiye playing an increasingly vital role in shaping a multipolar global order.
Deeper reading Turkey's Erdogan Has Become One of World's Most Powerful Men—And Trump Ally
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