Erdogan won. What’s next?

“While Erdogan becomes tougher domestically, he may seek better relations with Washington”

According to an article titled “Will Erdogan’s Victory Soften Turkey’s Opposition to Sweden’s NATO Membership?” published in The New York Times, Erdogan is expected to maintain a tough stance within Turkey during his new presidential term while trying to strike a balance between NATO allies and economic dependence on Russia.

However, according to experts, Erdogan may choose to repair ties with the United States and approve Sweden’s NATO membership prior to the NATO summit in July. The approval of Sweden’s NATO membership could also pave the way for the sale of F-16s.

The article mentions that former U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper stated during his visit to Finland that Turkey’s approval of Sweden’s NATO membership is crucial for improved relations. Esper warned that if Erdogan does not approve Sweden’s membership soon and delays the resolution until after the NATO summit, “we lose our energy, and I’m afraid the issue will drag on. Sweden’s accession to NATO is important for Sweden, the Nordic countries, NATO, and U.S. security,” he said.

“Turkey is not the only Western ally that is becoming more authoritarian”

The newspaper emphasizes that those who hope for a softer and more Western-oriented Turkey under Erdogan’s leadership may be disappointed, as Turkey is not the only Western ally moving towards increased…