Pompeo Questions Turkey's Geopolitical Loyalty at Cyprus Forum

Pompeo Questions Turkey’s Geopolitical Loyalty at Cyprus Forum

Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo sharply criticized Turkey’s foreign policy and defense strategy during an economic forum held in Cyprus. He focused on what he considers Turkey’s growing geopolitical divergence from its role as a NATO ally.

Concerns Over Turkey's Dual Alliances

Pompeo expressed strong concerns about Turkey’s attempt to balance close diplomatic and military ties with both NATO members and Russia. He described this dual stance as "fundamentally incompatible" with the security expectations of the Western alliance.

“Western powers have been unsuccessful in persuading Ankara that NATO membership and ownership of Russian weapons represent incompatible positions that compromise alliance security.”

Controversy Surrounding the Russian S-400 System

The former US diplomat specifically criticized Turkey’s controversial purchase of the Russian S-400 air defense missile system. This move resulted in the US removing Turkey from the F-35 fighter jet program.

Pompeo questioned Turkey’s long-term reliability as a Western partner, highlighting its continued prioritization of ties with Moscow, particularly in defense.

Assessment of the Cyprus Dispute

Addressing the ongoing Cyprus conflict, Pompeo attributed the stalled progress to Turkey’s leadership, placing responsibility for the lack of resolution on Ankara’s actions.

“The onus for a lack of progress [in Cyprus] lies with Turkish leadership.”

Summary

Pompeo’s remarks underline doubts about Turkey’s loyalty to NATO due to its close relations with Russia, raising concerns about alliance security and regional stability.

GreekReporter.com — 2025-11-06