Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has issued a stern warning to Greece, urging it to cease bolstering its military presence on the Aegean islands. Erdoğan contends that such actions violate international agreements and asserts that Turkey will not stand by if these perceived violations continue. Speaking after the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, Erdoğan emphasized Turkey’s desire to maintain amicable relations with Greece but insisted that Athens must reconsider its strategy of stationing military forces on islands that, according to Ankara, should remain demilitarized under existing international treaties.
In response, Greece maintains that its military deployments are a necessary measure due to security concerns and asserts its sovereign right to protect its territory. The tension between the two nations is further exacerbated by disputes over maritime boundaries and proposed marine parks in the Aegean Sea. Erdoğan reiterated that Turkey does not seek to claim territory from other nations but is resolute in defending its own perceived rights. He cautioned that disregarding international agreements could heighten tensions and advised Greece to heed lessons from previous conflicts.
During the summit, Erdoğan expressed Turkey’s intent to strengthen ties with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization while simultaneously fostering robust relations with Western countries. In meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Erdoğan discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and issues concerning Black Sea security, emphasizing the need for sustained security measures for commercial shipping amid increasing risks faced by Turkish vessels in the area.
Additionally, Erdoğan addressed Turkey’s defense collaborations with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, efforts to resolve the conflict with the PKK, and the country’s aspirations to rejoin the U.S. F-35 fighter jet program. He reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to continue advancing its domestically produced KAAN fighter aircraft, even as discussions with Washington persist. Erdoğan’s engagements at the summit reflect Turkey’s multifaceted approach to strengthening its geopolitical alliances and defense capabilities.