Putin to visit Turkey in first NATO ally trip
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Turkey on Feb. 12 to meet with President Tayyip Erdogan, marking his first visit to a NATO ally since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, according to a Turkish official.
This visit comes amid restrictions on Putin's international travel following the International Criminal Court's issuance of an arrest warrant for him in March last year over the alleged deportation of Ukrainian children, a charge Russia denies.
Turkey, not a member of the ICC, allows Putin to visit without the threat of arrest. Amidst the ongoing conflict, Turkey has managed to maintain balanced relations with both Russia and Ukraine, supporting Kyiv militarily and advocating for its sovereignty while simultaneously opposing sanctions against Moscow.
Efforts by Ankara to mediate the Black Sea Grain Initiative's continuation highlight Turkey's diplomatic engagement in the region, despite Russia's withdrawal from the agreement. On the same note, Turkey's economic relations with Russia, spanning tourism, gas, and agriculture, contrast with its political disputes in Syria, Libya, and the South Caucasus.
Furthermore, Erdogan plans to visit Egypt on Feb. 14, signaling a thaw in relations as the two nations recently restored diplomatic ties by exchanging ambassadors after years of discord. This diplomatic itinerary underscores Turkey's active role in both regional politics and broader international relations.
