Is Turkey America’s Ally? Examining the Complex US-Turkey Relationship

The United States and Turkey have been allies for decades, bound together by their membership in NATO and shared regional interests. However the relationship between these two countries has become increasingly complicated and strained in recent years. Disagreements over strategy in Syria Turkey’s human rights record, and its growing ties with Russia have raised questions about where US-Turkey relations currently stand. So is Turkey still America’s ally or has this key strategic partnership broken down?

History of US-Turkey Relations

The United States and Turkey have been military allies since 1952 when Turkey joined NATO during the early stages of the Cold War. Turkey occupies a strategically important location bordering the Middle East, Eastern Europe and the Black Sea. As a majority Muslim democracy Turkey was seen as a critical ally in containing Soviet influence and a bridge between the West and the Middle East.

For many decades, the US-Turkey alliance was strong and mutually beneficial. The United States maintained military bases and nuclear weapons in Turkey and backed its economic growth. Meanwhile, Turkey relied on US military aid and cooperation to build up its armed forces.

However, tensions have emerged at various points. Disagreements over Cyprus, America’s invasion of Iraq in 2003, and Turkey’s human rights violations have periodically strained the relationship. But the Syrian civil war and failed 2016 coup attempt in Turkey catalyzed a more serious deterioration.

How Syria Drove a Wedge Between the US and Turkey

One major factor in the breakdown of US-Turkey relations has been conflicting goals and methods in Syria.

The United States partnered with Kurdish forces in Syria to fight ISIS. However, Turkey sees those same Kurdish groups as terrorists and a threat to its security. In 2019, Turkey invaded northern Syria and attacked Kurdish held territory against the objections of the US.

Turkey also frequently bombs Kurdish positions in Syria and Iraq, eliciting criticism from Washington. Furthermore, Turkey has grown close to Russia, purchasing an advanced S-400 missile defense system over American objections.

Clearly, the Syrian conflict exposed a divergence in how the US and Turkey see the region that has opened up a gulf between the NATO allies.

Human Rights Concerns Create Further Tensions

In addition to strategic disputes, Turkey’s human rights abuses have made the United States question the alliance.

After the failed 2016 coup attempt, Erdogan’s government launched a massive crackdown, arresting thousands of perceived opponents. The State Department has expressed repeated concern over Turkey’s repression of free speech, jailing of journalists and opposition figures, and erosion of democratic norms.

As an authoritarian state with values seemingly opposed to America’s, Turkey has faced scrutiny over whether it still deserves ally status. Bipartisan voices in Congress have called for reevaluating relations with Turkey based on its treatment of dissidents and minorities.

Is Turkey Still a Reliable NATO Partner?

Turkey’s growing ties with Russia are also troubling for its NATO membership. From purchasing Russian air defense systems to their close cooperation on Syria, Turkey appears aligned with America’s main geostrategic rival.

This has raised concerns about Turkey’s commitment to NATO and Europe’s security. Having a member state closely allied with Russia undermines NATO’s integrity. Some experts have suggested Turkey’s behavior warrants suspension or even expulsion from NATO.

Clearly, Turkey can no longer be considered a loyal or reliable ally. Its goals now clash with America’s on multiple fronts. Yet the history of partnership still carries some weight.

The Complex Reality of US-Turkey Relations

So where do U.S.-Turkey relations currently stand? The relationship is clearly strained and may never return to its Cold War heights. However, Turkey is still seen as a valued, if difficult, ally.

• Turkey occupies a vital strategic position making it important to maintain engagement.

• As a majority Muslim democracy, Turkey still carries symbolic value despite its autocratic slide.

• The United States stores nuclear weapons in Turkey and relies on access to bases there.

• Complete isolation or abandonment of Turkey could push it totally into Russia’s sphere of influence.

• Turkey still views the United States as its main ally and protector despite recent clashes.

Due to these factors, the United States continues trying to work with Turkey where possible and maintain the foundations of the alliance. But alliances are built on shared values and trust. Until Turkey rights its course, relations will remain turbulent with this once staunch ally.