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ALIYEV DOUBLES DOWN AS ANKARA REMAINS OVERLY CONCILIATORY
Deciphering Turkish Diplomacy Oct 30, 2026

ALIYEV DOUBLES DOWN AS ANKARA REMAINS OVERLY CONCILIATORY

Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, declined President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s invitation to attend the summit of the Organization of Turkic States, scheduled for the day after Turkey’s Republic Day, marking one of the biggest crises in the two countries' close relationship. Despite Ankara’s visible steps to defuse the recent tension, his refusal to come on a date carrying symbolic importance for Turkey attests to the changing dynamics in the relationship since the military victory over Nagorno-Karabakh in 2020.

Barçın Yinanç 5 min
A HARDER RACE THIS TIME FOR ANKARA'S PERENNIAL DIPLOMAT
Foreign Affairs Oct 1, 2026

A HARDER RACE THIS TIME FOR ANKARA'S PERENNIAL DIPLOMAT

OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu is testing the waters with the Security Council's permanent members for the post of UN secretary-general, although the regional rotation favors a candidate from the Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC).

Editorial Staff 3 min
MADE IN TÜRKİYE
The Third Desk Oct 1, 2026

MADE IN TÜRKİYE

In December of last year, the Chinese carmaker SWM Motors began production in Eskişehir, with ambitious plans. Annual production of 20,000 to 25,000 vehicles was to grow substantially and the factory was eventually to serve as a base for exports to the Balkans and neighboring markets.

Can Öztaş 4 min
WHEN RULES BECOME GUIDELINES
The Third Desk Sep 3, 2026

WHEN RULES BECOME GUIDELINES

In Pirates of the Caribbean, cornered by the Black Pearl, Elizabeth Swann invokes “parley” under the Pirata Codex. Barbossa, with the convenience of a man who commands the only ship in sight, decides the Code is not quite law. Closer, he explains, to guidance.

Can Öztaş 4 min
OPERATION TARGETS SÜLEYMANCI GROUP
Inside Turkey Aug 13, 2026

OPERATION TARGETS SÜLEYMANCI GROUP

A financial crimes operation targeting the Süleymancı religious sect, led by Alihan Kuriş, whose given name is Ali Erhan Kuriş, 46, was carried out across 17 provinces. Detention orders were issued for 49 people, including Kuriş.

Editorial Staff 3 min
TURKEY CALLS FOR BLACK SEA SECURITY AFTER SHIP STRIKES
Foreign Affairs Aug 6, 2026

TURKEY CALLS FOR BLACK SEA SECURITY AFTER SHIP STRIKES

Turkey urged Russia and Ukraine to safeguard civilian navigation in the Black Sea after Turkish-owned cargo ships were hit by drones. Ankara refrained from blaming either side for the attack, instead calling on both warring parties to immediately ensure maritime security, on Aug. 4.

Editorial Staff 2 min
THE FIRE SEASON
The Third Desk Jul 30, 2026

THE FIRE SEASON

This summer, Turkey’s coast mostly held. A fire near Fethiye, a scare in Antalya’s Kepez district, a few homes emptied as a precaution and their residents returned to within a day. After last year, it has the feel of a reprieve, which is the most dangerous weather the region knows. Because we have all seen what the season can do.

Can Öztaş 4 min
THE ISLAND EVERYONE NEEDS AND NO ONE SOLVES
The Third Desk Jul 23, 2026

THE ISLAND EVERYONE NEEDS AND NO ONE SOLVES

António Guterres will arrive in Cyprus at the end of July, carrying another possibility of peace to an island familiar with such visits. Cyprus diplomacy sometimes resembles Buñuel’s The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie. The guests assemble, the table is laid, and dinner is indefinitely postponed.

Can Öztaş 4 min