Finnish President Sauli Niinisto announced on Tuesday that Türkiye has finally agreed to support Sweden and Finland’s bid to become NATO members. The announcement came on the first day of the NATO summit in Madrid as the three countries signed a joint memorandum “to extend their full support against threats to each other’s security”. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had a meeting with his Swedish and Finnish counterparts about his reservations regarding their NATO membership bid but the result was a mutual understanding between the three nations.

“We have made progress. That is definitely the case,” Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-would-halt-its-offensive-as-soon-as-ukraine-surrenders-kremlin-492727" hreflang="en">Russia would halt its offensive as soon as Ukraine surrenders: Kremlin</a>

“We are prepared for something positive to happen today, but also for it to take more time,” she added according to AFP. “We must be patient and continue discussions even after the summit.”

Earlier, Türkiye voiced their strong objection to allowing Sweden and Finland into the NATO alliance due to the two countries’ approach towards groups which Erdogan considers to be “national security threats”. However, they were urged by both Spain and France to reconsider their decision.

French President Emmanuel Macron had called for a message of “unity and of force” from NATO in Madrid while Spain expressed their support to Finland and Sweden regarding their NATO bid.

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NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that NATO leaders will be formally inviting Finland and Sweden to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation on Wednesday, according to AFP.

"I'm pleased to announce that we now have an agreement that paves the way for Finland and Sweden to join NATO. Turkey, Finland and Sweden have signed a memorandum that addresses Turkey's concerns, including around arms exports, and the fight against terrorism," Stoltenberg said.

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Finnish President Sauli Niinisto announced on Tuesday that Türkiye has finally agreed to support Sweden and Finland’s bid to become NATO members. The announcement came on the first day of the NATO summit in Madrid as the three countries signed a joint memorandum “to extend their full support against threats to each other’s security”.

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto announced on Tuesday that Türkiye has finally agreed to support Sweden and Finland’s bid to become NATO members. The announcement came on the first day of the NATO summit in Madrid as the three countries signed a joint memorandum “to extend their full support against threats to each other’s security”. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had a meeting with his Swedish and Finnish counterparts about his reservations regarding their NATO membership bid but the result was a mutual understanding between the three nations. “We have made progress. That is definitely the case,” Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde said. Also read | Russia would halt its offensive as soon as Ukraine surrenders: Kremlin “We are prepared for something positive to happen today, but also for it to take more time,” she added according to AFP. “We must be patient and continue discussions even after the summit.” Earlier, Türkiye voiced their strong objection to allowing Sweden and Finland into the NATO alliance due to the two countries’ approach towards groups which Erdogan considers to be “national security threats”. However, they were urged by both Spain and France to reconsider their decision. French President Emmanuel Macron had called for a message of “unity and of force” from NATO in Madrid while Spain expressed their support to Finland and Sweden regarding their NATO bid. Also read | Ghislaine Maxwell sentenced to 20 years in prison over sex trafficking NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that NATO leaders will be formally inviting Finland and Sweden to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation on Wednesday, according to AFP. "I'm pleased to announce that we now have an agreement that paves the way for Finland and Sweden to join NATO. Turkey, Finland and Sweden have signed a memorandum that addresses Turkey's concerns, including around arms exports, and the fight against terrorism," Stoltenberg said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NATO to invite Finland and Sweden to join alliance after Türkiye lifts objections

Spain is shifting its foreign policy towards Africa while lobbying the EU and NATO for support to address migration from the continent, aggravated by the Ukraine invasion.

Spain lobbies NATO, allies over Ukraine-driven migration

With the G7 summit over, leaders are en route to Madrid for a three-day NATO conference; the western military alliance will focus on the ongoing war in eastern Europe.

Spain: NATO gears up for Madrid Summit

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet leaders of Sweden and Finland as well as NATO on Tuesday (June 28) ahead of the NATO Summit, said Turkish presidential spokesman on Sunday.

Both, Finland and Sweden have applied for NATO membership after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, their bids have been opposed by Turkiye. The country says that it has been angered by Sweden and Finland's support for Kurdish militants and arms embargoes on Ankara.

Turkiye Presidential Spokesman Ibrahim Kalin was talking with broadcaster Haberturk when he said that he himself and Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal would also attend another round of talks with Swedish and Finnish delegations on Monday (June 27)

"There will be a four-way summit at the leader level with the attendance of our president in Madrid upon the request of the NATO secretary general," he said.

Kalin said Erdogan attending the talks with Sweden, Finland and NATO on Tuesday "does not mean we will take a step back from our position."

Kalin said Turkey and the Nordic countries had largely agreed on issues and would be in a better position in Madrid if they could agree on them during talks on Monday.

"We have brought negotiations to a certain point. It is not possible for us to take a step back here," he also said of the talks on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet leaders of Sweden and Finland as well as NATO on Tuesday (June 28) ahead of the NATO Summit, said Turkish presidential spokesman on Sunday.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet leaders of Sweden and Finland as well as NATO on Tuesday (June 28) ahead of the NATO Summit, said Turkish presidential spokesman on Sunday. Both, Finland and Sweden have applied for NATO membership after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, their bids have been opposed by Turkiye. The country says that it has been angered by Sweden and Finland's support for Kurdish militants and arms embargoes on Ankara. Turkiye Presidential Spokesman Ibrahim Kalin was talking with broadcaster Haberturk when he said that he himself and Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal would also attend another round of talks with Swedish and Finnish delegations on Monday (June 27) "There will be a four-way summit at the leader level with the attendance of our president in Madrid upon the request of the NATO secretary general," he said. Kalin said Erdogan attending the talks with Sweden, Finland and NATO on Tuesday "does not mean we will take a step back from our position." Kalin said Turkey and the Nordic countries had largely agreed on issues and would be in a better position in Madrid if they could agree on them during talks on Monday. "We have brought negotiations to a certain point. It is not possible for us to take a step back here," he also said of the talks on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Erdogan to meet Swedish, Finnish leaders before NATO summit

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, yet another NATO summit will be held on 28-30 June. NATO leaders are expected to pledge aid to the Baltics.

NATO Leaders Summit 28-30 June: NATO to pledge aid to Baltics

NATO leaders will urge Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to lift his veto over Finland and Sweden's bid to join the military alliance when they meet for a three-day summit on Tuesday, as the West strives to send Russia and China a signal of resolve.

Taking place in the shadow of Russia's war in Ukraine, the Madrid gathering comes at a pivotal moment for the transatlantic bond after failures in Afghanistan and internal discord during the era of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to pull Washington out of the nuclear alliance.

Negotiations among an often-fractious organisation are still under way, diplomats said, but leaders also hope to agree to provide more military aid to Ukraine, increase joint defence spending, cement a new resolve to tackle China's military rise and put more troops on stand-by to defend the Baltics.

Spain, whose king will host a dinner for leaders, is also pushing for more NATO focus on the southern flank to address migration and militant groups in the Sahel region of Africa.

The leaders of Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea are expected to attend part of the summit, part of a broader U.S. strategy for a more assertive Western presence in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China.

"We will do more to ensure we can defend every inch of allied territory, at all times and against any threat," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in a speech last week.

Although British and U.S. officials have advised against a Baltic request for permanent multinational forces in the region, the summit is likely to settle on a compromise of promising rapid reinforcements.

Germany has already said it will put more troops at the ready to defend Lithuania should Russia seek to seize NATO territory and Britain is expected to do the same for Estonia, while Latvia is looking to Canada to pledge more troops there.

TURKEY VETO

NATO - created in 1949 to counter the Soviet threat - is under no treaty obligation to defend Ukraine, as the former Soviet republic is not a NATO member.

But Russian President Vladimir Putin's Feb. 24 invasion has sparked a geopolitical shift as once neutral countries Finland and Sweden seek to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and Ukraine has formally become a candidate to join the European Union.

If accepted, Finland and Sweden's inclusion into NATO would bring about the expansion of the alliance that the Russian leader aimed to prevent.

"I think it sends an important message to Putin. And I think it would actually significantly strengthen the alliance," U.S. Senator Angus King said of Finland and Sweden, following a trip to Finland, Latvia and Turkey.

However, Turkey is also testing that unity, angered by what it says is Helsinki and Stockholm's support for Kurdish militants and arms embargoes on Ankara.

A Turkish government official involved in the talks between the three countries and NATO's Stoltenberg told Reuters it would be difficult to reach a deal at the summit, saying that Sweden and Finland must first address Turkish concerns.

"There were meetings, but unfortunately steps we expected are not being taken," the official said.

Sweden has set up a process for ongoing consultations, diplomats said. But two senior NATO diplomats said the dispute was less about technical benchmarks and more about politics.

Erdogan's stance has proved popular at home before a June 2023 presidential election as he seeks to challenge U.S. and European priorities. In recent weeks, he has threatened more military operations in northern Syria, stoked tensions with fellow NATO member Greece and declined to join Western sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine war.

"I think there's nearly zero chance that this issue will be resolved at the Madrid summit," said Soner Cagaptay, a Turkey analyst at the Washington Institute, a U.S. think-tank.

U.S. President Joe Biden could hold a meeting with Erdogan in the margins of the NATO summit to push for progress with Finland and Sweden, whose leaders will be in Madrid.

But Cagaptay added that Erdogan could try to use the situation to boost his popularity and call a possible snap election in November ahead of the official June 2023 vote.

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NATO leaders will urge Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to lift his veto over Finland and Sweden's bid to join the military alliance when they meet for a three-day summit on Tuesday, as the West strives to send Russia and China a signal of resolve.

NATO leaders will urge Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to lift his veto over Finland and Sweden's bid to join the military alliance when they meet for a three-day summit on Tuesday, as the West strives to send Russia and China a signal of resolve. Taking place in the shadow of Russia's war in Ukraine, the Madrid gathering comes at a pivotal moment for the transatlantic bond after failures in Afghanistan and internal discord during the era of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to pull Washington out of the nuclear alliance. Negotiations among an often-fractious organisation are still under way, diplomats said, but leaders also hope to agree to provide more military aid to Ukraine, increase joint defence spending, cement a new resolve to tackle China's military rise and put more troops on stand-by to defend the Baltics. Spain, whose king will host a dinner for leaders, is also pushing for more NATO focus on the southern flank to address migration and militant groups in the Sahel region of Africa. The leaders of Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea are expected to attend part of the summit, part of a broader U.S. strategy for a more assertive Western presence in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China. "We will do more to ensure we can defend every inch of allied territory, at all times and against any threat," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in a speech last week. Although British and U.S. officials have advised against a Baltic request for permanent multinational forces in the region, the summit is likely to settle on a compromise of promising rapid reinforcements. Germany has already said it will put more troops at the ready to defend Lithuania should Russia seek to seize NATO territory and Britain is expected to do the same for Estonia, while Latvia is looking to Canada to pledge more troops there. TURKEY VETO NATO - created in 1949 to counter the Soviet threat - is under no treaty obligation to defend Ukraine, as the former Soviet republic is not a NATO member. But Russian President Vladimir Putin's Feb. 24 invasion has sparked a geopolitical shift as once neutral countries Finland and Sweden seek to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and Ukraine has formally become a candidate to join the European Union. If accepted, Finland and Sweden's inclusion into NATO would bring about the expansion of the alliance that the Russian leader aimed to prevent. "I think it sends an important message to Putin. And I think it would actually significantly strengthen the alliance," U.S. Senator Angus King said of Finland and Sweden, following a trip to Finland, Latvia and Turkey. However, Turkey is also testing that unity, angered by what it says is Helsinki and Stockholm's support for Kurdish militants and arms embargoes on Ankara. A Turkish government official involved in the talks between the three countries and NATO's Stoltenberg told Reuters it would be difficult to reach a deal at the summit, saying that Sweden and Finland must first address Turkish concerns. "There were meetings, but unfortunately steps we expected are not being taken," the official said. Sweden has set up a process for ongoing consultations, diplomats said. But two senior NATO diplomats said the dispute was less about technical benchmarks and more about politics. Erdogan's stance has proved popular at home before a June 2023 presidential election as he seeks to challenge U.S. and European priorities. In recent weeks, he has threatened more military operations in northern Syria, stoked tensions with fellow NATO member Greece and declined to join Western sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine war. "I think there's nearly zero chance that this issue will be resolved at the Madrid summit," said Soner Cagaptay, a Turkey analyst at the Washington Institute, a U.S. think-tank. U.S. President Joe Biden could hold a meeting with Erdogan in the margins of the NATO summit to push for progress with Finland and Sweden, whose leaders will be in Madrid. But Cagaptay added that Erdogan could try to use the situation to boost his popularity and call a possible snap election in November ahead of the official June 2023 vote. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NATO to pledge aid to Baltics and Ukraine, urge Turkey to let in Nordics

An Arab NATO can be an alliance of regional foes against Iran. But What is an Arab NATO? Does West Asia need an Arab NATO? Watch this report.

What is an Arab NATO? Does West Asia need an Arab NATO?

Amid the war in Ukraine, North Korea has accussed the United States of trying to "establish an Asia-style NATO".

"While blatantly holding joint military exercises with Japan and South Korea, the United States is making a full-fledged move to establish an Asia-style NATO," North Korea's foreign ministry said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-dark-economy-of-north-korea-490588">Also Read:&nbsp;The dark economy of North Korea</a>

The US and South Korea recently conducted a naval exercise which ended earlier this month. The three-day exercise took place off the Japanese island of Okinawa.

Significantly, US aircraft carriers also took part in the naval exercise as the US Navy's 7th Fleet said it was meant to strengthen the interoperability of the two navies amid tensions between South Korea and North Korea.

Watch:&nbsp;North Korea working to include 2nd tunnel at nuclear test site

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The development comes as reports claim North Korea may be preparing to test nuclear weapons. North Korea has conducted a number of ballistic missile tests this year including ICBM missile launch.

The United States and South Korea have warned of a swift reply if North Korea conducts a nuclear test. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had the US has&nbsp; "no hostile intent" towards Kim Jong-Un's regime while pursuing a "diplomatic approach".

"This proves the hypocrisy of the US rhetoric of 'diplomatic engagement' and 'dialogue without preconditions', while at the same time revealing again that there is no change in the US ambition to overthrow our system by force," North Korea said.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Amid the war in Ukraine, North Korea has accussed the United States of trying to "establish an Asia-style NATO". "While blatantly holding joint military exercises with Japan and South Korea, the United States is making a full-fledged move to establish an Asia-style NATO," North Korea's foreign ministry said in a statement.

Amid the war in Ukraine, North Korea has accussed the United States of trying to "establish an Asia-style NATO". "While blatantly holding joint military exercises with Japan and South Korea, the United States is making a full-fledged move to establish an Asia-style NATO," North Korea's foreign ministry said in a statement. Also Read: The dark economy of North Korea The US and South Korea recently conducted a naval exercise which ended earlier this month. The three-day exercise took place off the Japanese island of Okinawa. Significantly, US aircraft carriers also took part in the naval exercise as the US Navy's 7th Fleet said it was meant to strengthen the interoperability of the two navies amid tensions between South Korea and North Korea. Watch: North Korea working to include 2nd tunnel at nuclear test site The development comes as reports claim North Korea may be preparing to test nuclear weapons. North Korea has conducted a number of ballistic missile tests this year including ICBM missile launch. The United States and South Korea have warned of a swift reply if North Korea conducts a nuclear test. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had the US has "no hostile intent" towards Kim Jong-Un's regime while pursuing a "diplomatic approach". "This proves the hypocrisy of the US rhetoric of 'diplomatic engagement' and 'dialogue without preconditions', while at the same time revealing again that there is no change in the US ambition to overthrow our system by force," North Korea said. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US moving to establish an Asia-style NATO, says North Korea

NATO leaders will urge Turkish President Erdogan to lift his veto over Finland and Sweden's bid to join the military alliance when they meet for a three-day summit. The meeting will take place from the 28th to 30th June.

Turkiye blocking entry of Finland, Sweden in NATO

One of the close allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that London would be bombed first as the potential NATO target if World War III erupts.

Andrey Gurulyov, a member of Russia’s parliament’s defence committee, made these chilling remarks while speaking to Russian state-controlled Channel 1.&nbsp;He was discussing how a possible full-scale invasion of NATO’s Baltic state members would work out, reports UK-based Metro newspaper.

“We’ll destroy the entire group of enemy’s space satellites during the first air operation,” said lieutenant-general Gurulyov, a senior commander who now represents United Russia, the main pro-Vladimir Putin political party.

The move to bomb the UK first as a NATO member would trigger clause five of the military alliance and might lead to World War Three.

Article 5 states that if a NATO Ally is the victim of an armed attack, each and every other member of the Alliance will consider this act of&nbsp;violence&nbsp;as an armed attack against all members and will take the actions it deems necessary to assist the Ally attacked.

‘No-one will care if they are American or British, we would see them all as NATO. Second, we’ll mitigate the entire system of anti-missile defence, everywhere and 100 per cent. Third, we certainly won’t start from Warsaw, Paris or Berlin,” he was quoted as saying.

“The first to be hit will be London. It’s crystal clear that the threat to the world comes from the Anglo-Saxons,” he added.

He said the invasion of Baltic countries was the only way to prevent the West from blockading Kaliningrad, a Russian semi-exclave between Lithuania and Poland.

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Gurulyov said Western Europe would be “cut off from power supplies” – which he said would also be destroyed – and “immobilised.”

“In the third stage, I shall see what the USA will tell Western Europe on continuing their fight in the cold, without food and electricity,” he continued. “I wonder how they [the US] will manage to stay aside.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-farm-animals-burned-alive-in-russian-bombing-491640" hreflang="en">Ukraine farm animals burned alive in Russian bombing</a>

“This is the rough plan, and I deliberately leave out certain moments because they are not to be discussed on TV.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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One of the close allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that London would be bombed first as the potential NATO target if World War III erupts. Andrey Gurulyov, a member of Russia’s parliament’s defence committee, made these chilling remarks while speaking to Russian state-controlled Channel 1.

One of the close allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that London would be bombed first as the potential NATO target if World War III erupts. Andrey Gurulyov, a member of Russia’s parliament’s defence committee, made these chilling remarks while speaking to Russian state-controlled Channel 1. He was discussing how a possible full-scale invasion of NATO’s Baltic state members would work out, reports UK-based Metro newspaper. “We’ll destroy the entire group of enemy’s space satellites during the first air operation,” said lieutenant-general Gurulyov, a senior commander who now represents United Russia, the main pro-Vladimir Putin political party. The move to bomb the UK first as a NATO member would trigger clause five of the military alliance and might lead to World War Three. Article 5 states that if a NATO Ally is the victim of an armed attack, each and every other member of the Alliance will consider this act of violence as an armed attack against all members and will take the actions it deems necessary to assist the Ally attacked. ‘No-one will care if they are American or British, we would see them all as NATO. Second, we’ll mitigate the entire system of anti-missile defence, everywhere and 100 per cent. Third, we certainly won’t start from Warsaw, Paris or Berlin,” he was quoted as saying. “The first to be hit will be London. It’s crystal clear that the threat to the world comes from the Anglo-Saxons,” he added. He said the invasion of Baltic countries was the only way to prevent the West from blockading Kaliningrad, a Russian semi-exclave between Lithuania and Poland. Also read | Putin promises Belarus nuclear-capable missiles to counter 'aggressive' West Gurulyov said Western Europe would be “cut off from power supplies” – which he said would also be destroyed – and “immobilised.” “In the third stage, I shall see what the USA will tell Western Europe on continuing their fight in the cold, without food and electricity,” he continued. “I wonder how they [the US] will manage to stay aside.” Also read | Ukraine farm animals burned alive in Russian bombing “This is the rough plan, and I deliberately leave out certain moments because they are not to be discussed on TV.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

London will be bombed first if World War III happens, warns Vladimir Putin’s ally

The Russian foreign ministry has said that in order to counter the ''aggressive'' West, President Vladimir Putin told his counterpart from Belarus that Moscow would supply Minsk with missile systems capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

Expressing concern about the "confrontational" and "repulsive" policies of its neighbours Lithuania and Poland, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko asked Putin to help Belarus mount a "symmetrical response".

In response, Putin assured Lukashenko that Belarus' Russian-built Su-25 jets could be upgraded if necessary.

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A foreign ministry summary of the meeting quoted him as saying, "We will transfer Iskander-M tactical missile systems to Belarus, which can use both ballistic and cruise missiles, both in conventional and nuclear versions."

Replacing the Soviet "Scud", the Iskander-M mobile includes two guided missiles have a range of up to 500 km (300 miles) and can carry conventional or nuclear warheads.

Putting Belarus and its close ally Russia under one umbrella, Lukashenko said, "Minsk must be ready for anything, even the use of serious weaponry to defend our fatherland from Brest to Vladivostok."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-farm-animals-burned-alive-in-russian-bombing-491640" hreflang="en">Ukraine farm animals burned alive in Russian bombing</a>

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24, tensions between Russia and the West have soared along with triggering a barrage of&nbsp;sanctions against Moscow.

As a result of the Ukraine war, Sweden and Russia's northern neighbour Finland have applied to join the Western alliance.&nbsp;

By blocking the transit of goods subject to European sanctions travelling across its territory from Russia, Lithuania, in particular, has infuriated Moscow which has termed it a "blockade".

However, Lithuania has defended its decision by saying that it affects only 1 per cent of the normal goods transit on the route.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian foreign ministry has said that in order to counter the ''aggressive'' West, President Vladimir Putin told his counterpart from Belarus that Moscow would supply Minsk with missile systems capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

The Russian foreign ministry has said that in order to counter the ''aggressive'' West, President Vladimir Putin told his counterpart from Belarus that Moscow would supply Minsk with missile systems capable of carrying nuclear weapons. Expressing concern about the "confrontational" and "repulsive" policies of its neighbours Lithuania and Poland, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko asked Putin to help Belarus mount a "symmetrical response". In response, Putin assured Lukashenko that Belarus' Russian-built Su-25 jets could be upgraded if necessary. × A foreign ministry summary of the meeting quoted him as saying, "We will transfer Iskander-M tactical missile systems to Belarus, which can use both ballistic and cruise missiles, both in conventional and nuclear versions." Replacing the Soviet "Scud", the Iskander-M mobile includes two guided missiles have a range of up to 500 km (300 miles) and can carry conventional or nuclear warheads. Putting Belarus and its close ally Russia under one umbrella, Lukashenko said, "Minsk must be ready for anything, even the use of serious weaponry to defend our fatherland from Brest to Vladivostok." Also read | Ukraine farm animals burned alive in Russian bombing Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24, tensions between Russia and the West have soared along with triggering a barrage of sanctions against Moscow. As a result of the Ukraine war, Sweden and Russia's northern neighbour Finland have applied to join the Western alliance. By blocking the transit of goods subject to European sanctions travelling across its territory from Russia, Lithuania, in particular, has infuriated Moscow which has termed it a "blockade". However, Lithuania has defended its decision by saying that it affects only 1 per cent of the normal goods transit on the route. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Russia will supply Belarus with missile systems capable of carrying nuclear weapons

Kaliningrad – a Russian region between two European Union nations Poland and Lithuania – has been caught in a row between Russia and Lithuania. How does the row affect the Russian region?

Why is Kaliningrad at center of row between Russia and Lithuania?

Germany, on Monday, downplayed expectation that NATO summit next week would take concrete decision on Finland and Sweden's membership, but it stressed that a deal was in sight.

"I think this is about expectations management and to place this in its historical context," said a high-ranking German government source.

"And given the historical dimension, it would not be a catastrophe if we need a few more weeks" to find a deal, the source added.

"We are confident, very confident that a solution can be found that takes into account both sides' interests."

The official was quoted by AFP.

NATO had originally expected Finland and Sweden's membership bids to sail through quickly at a time when the alliance is keen to show a united front vis-a-vis Russia.

But Turkey's last minute resistance has thrown them off course.

Ankara has accused Finland and Sweden of providing a safe haven for the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), listed as a "terrorist" group by Turkey and its Western allies.

Ankara has also demanded that they lift their weapons freezes on Turkey.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany, on Monday, downplayed expectation that NATO summit next week would take concrete decision on Finland and Sweden's membership, but it stressed that a deal was in sight.

Germany, on Monday, downplayed expectation that NATO summit next week would take concrete decision on Finland and Sweden's membership, but it stressed that a deal was in sight. "I think this is about expectations management and to place this in its historical context," said a high-ranking German government source. "And given the historical dimension, it would not be a catastrophe if we need a few more weeks" to find a deal, the source added. "We are confident, very confident that a solution can be found that takes into account both sides' interests." The official was quoted by AFP. NATO had originally expected Finland and Sweden's membership bids to sail through quickly at a time when the alliance is keen to show a united front vis-a-vis Russia. But Turkey's last minute resistance has thrown them off course. Ankara has accused Finland and Sweden of providing a safe haven for the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), listed as a "terrorist" group by Turkey and its Western allies. Ankara has also demanded that they lift their weapons freezes on Turkey. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany downplays Sweden, Finland's NATO bid expectation: Report

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg warned that the Russia-Ukraine war could last “for years”, and asked member countries to increase support, financially and militarily to Kyiv.

NATO chief warns Russia-Ukraine war might last long

The US President Joe Biden has announced another USD 1 billion assistance to Ukraine in weapons which include anti-ship systems, artillery rockets and round of howitzers; this was announced following a call between President Biden and President Zelensky of Ukraine, who has been demanding additional and more sophisticated military assistance to defend his country from the Russian aggression; this is the 12th military package from the USA since the launch of “ Special Military Operation” by Russia in Ukraine on 24th February 2022. It is thus abundantly clear that the West remains committed to continued augmenting of Ukraine’s defence capacities in the latter’s conflict with Russia on the one hand and punishing Russia through severe economic sanctions on the other. One can therefore foresee a prolonged conflict unless Russia and Ukraine surprise the rest of the world by entering into a compromise deal, chances of which appear remote at the moment.

Meanwhile, even though is Ukraine under fire, the heat is being felt all over the world in one way or the other. In short, the impact of the war has assumed global dimensions and is reflected in physical security, energy security, food security, disruptions in supply chains and resultant high inflation rates, etc.&nbsp;

Watch: Russia-Ukraine crisis | 500 front-line soldiers injured daily: Ambulance teams

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In terms of physical proximity, the European continent is closest to the war zone. For the first time since WWII, Europe is witnessing a conflict of massive dimensions which is posing a serious threat to its physical security. As a result, one can see a change in the mindset. Germany has revised its traditional policy and decided to supply arms to Ukraine during wartime. Finland and Sweden have decided to give up their traditional neutrality and are seeking NATO membership as a security guarantee from any possible aggression by Russia.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-germany-italy-romania-leaders-back-ukraine-membership-bid-during-crucial-kyiv-visit-488906">France, Germany, Italy, Romania back Ukraine's EU membership bid during crucial Kyiv visit</a>

The strong punitive measures by the US and allies against Russia have further strengthened the emerging alliance between Russia and China who, pushed by the USA in any case were moving closer to each other for some time now and their relations had evolved to reach by 2019 a “comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for new era”.&nbsp;

The partnership covers a wide range of spheres for the promotion of bilateral ties, besides adopting a coordinated approach on regional and global issues.

The Indo-Pacific region is one fine example of their coordinated approach. Both Russia and China describe the region differently as Asia-Pacific and are on the same page as far as the revival of Quad, creation of Aukus and NATO’s eastwards expansion are concerned.&nbsp;

During President Putin’s visit to China in February this year Russia and China, in an implied reference to Quad, declared that they “stand against the formation of closed bloc structures and opposing camps in the Asia-Pacific region and remain highly vigilant about the negative impact of the United States' Indo-Pacific strategy on peace and stability in the region”. The two of them went on to claim in this regard that they have “made consistent efforts to build an equitable, open and inclusive security system in the Asia-Pacific Region (APR) that is not directed against third countries and that promotes peace, stability and prosperity”.&nbsp;

They also expressed concern over the “formation of the trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom (AUKUS)”, alleging that “such actions are contrary to the objectives of security and sustainable development of the Asia-Pacific region---“. Opposing the “further enlargement of NATO” Russia and China called on the NATO “to abandon its ideologised cold war approaches---“&nbsp;

Watch | Countering China's influence in the Pacific: The US promises a new Pacific initiative

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&nbsp;

From the &nbsp;US perspective, China is a key factor and Taiwan is a potential flash point in the Indo-Pacific region. The USA has repeatedly warned China against any military action in Taiwan. It remains to be seen whether China will be emboldened by Russia’s military action in Ukraine and embark on any adventure to integrate Taiwan with mainland by use of force or will it be deterred by the resolute, concerted and united stand taken by the US and allies in support of Ukraine and to isolate and weaken Russia.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-boost-china-launches-most-advanced-aircraft-carrier-called-fujian-find-out-why-it-is-special-489015">China launches 'most advanced' aircraft carrier called Fujian. Find out why it is special</a>

Besides the international geopolitical and strategic affairs, the Russia-Ukraine conflict is also causing an adverse impact in areas of energy and food security. The punitive sanctions on imports of Russian oil and gas have pushed the energy prices worldwide creating a difficult situation particularly in poor and developing countries which are witnessing high inflation as a cascading effect of costlier energy.&nbsp;

Europe depends heavily on Russia for its requirements of energy resources, particularly natural gas. Any interruption in supplies will have a serious impact on gas-operated industries and in turn on economy. While EU has followed the USA in imposing sanctions on Russia in many other areas, the energy sector is one where Europe is finding itself in a tight spot. After prolonged deliberations, the EU decided (30th May) on some partial measures when it announced its decision to cut its 90% oil imports from Russia by end of the year.&nbsp;

Russia and Ukraine are major suppliers of wheat accounting for 30% of global needs. In addition, the two countries also are major suppliers of edible oil and fertilisers. The war has created serious disruptions in supplies to global markets as a result of which the food prices have soared and the world is facing a serious food crisis. Several countries, including India, have imposed full or partial ban on food exports keeping in mind their own food security.&nbsp;

In an alarming statement, the UN Secretary-General said last month that the shortages of grain and fertilisers due to war could cause “mass hunger and famine” and these shortages threaten to “tip tens of millions of people over the edge into food insecurity” He warned that the global food crisis could last for years unless checked. In this context, the World Bank is reported to have announced an additional $12bn in funding to mitigate its “devastating effects”

When the armed conflict broke out on 24th February, most experts thought it will be over in a week or so but has already crossed 100 days mark and there are no signs of any breakthrough. More importantly, the USA doesn’t seem to be interested in early resolution of the conflict. Russia has gone too far and unlikely to retract unless its bottom-line objectives of gaining control over east Ukraine is achieved.&nbsp;

It is a matter of speculation at this point of time how long and how much the rest of the world, particularly poor and developing countries, will have to bear the short and long-term adverse impact due to big-powers rivalry.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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&nbsp;

The US President Joe Biden has announced another USD 1 billion assistance to Ukraine in weapons which include anti-ship systems, artillery rockets and round of howitzers; this was announced following a call between President Biden and President Zelensky of Ukraine, who has been demanding additional and more sophisticated military assistance to defend his country from the Russian aggression; this is the 12th military package from the USA since the launch of “ Special Military Operation” by Russia in Ukraine on 24th February 2022.

The US President Joe Biden has announced another USD 1 billion assistance to Ukraine in weapons which include anti-ship systems, artillery rockets and round of howitzers; this was announced following a call between President Biden and President Zelensky of Ukraine, who has been demanding additional and more sophisticated military assistance to defend his country from the Russian aggression; this is the 12th military package from the USA since the launch of “ Special Military Operation” by Russia in Ukraine on 24th February 2022. It is thus abundantly clear that the West remains committed to continued augmenting of Ukraine’s defence capacities in the latter’s conflict with Russia on the one hand and punishing Russia through severe economic sanctions on the other. One can therefore foresee a prolonged conflict unless Russia and Ukraine surprise the rest of the world by entering into a compromise deal, chances of which appear remote at the moment. Meanwhile, even though is Ukraine under fire, the heat is being felt all over the world in one way or the other. In short, the impact of the war has assumed global dimensions and is reflected in physical security, energy security, food security, disruptions in supply chains and resultant high inflation rates, etc. Watch: Russia-Ukraine crisis | 500 front-line soldiers injured daily: Ambulance teams × In terms of physical proximity, the European continent is closest to the war zone. For the first time since WWII, Europe is witnessing a conflict of massive dimensions which is posing a serious threat to its physical security. As a result, one can see a change in the mindset. Germany has revised its traditional policy and decided to supply arms to Ukraine during wartime. Finland and Sweden have decided to give up their traditional neutrality and are seeking NATO membership as a security guarantee from any possible aggression by Russia. Also Read | France, Germany, Italy, Romania back Ukraine's EU membership bid during crucial Kyiv visit The strong punitive measures by the US and allies against Russia have further strengthened the emerging alliance between Russia and China who, pushed by the USA in any case were moving closer to each other for some time now and their relations had evolved to reach by 2019 a “comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for new era”. The partnership covers a wide range of spheres for the promotion of bilateral ties, besides adopting a coordinated approach on regional and global issues. The Indo-Pacific region is one fine example of their coordinated approach. Both Russia and China describe the region differently as Asia-Pacific and are on the same page as far as the revival of Quad, creation of Aukus and NATO’s eastwards expansion are concerned. During President Putin’s visit to China in February this year Russia and China, in an implied reference to Quad, declared that they “stand against the formation of closed bloc structures and opposing camps in the Asia-Pacific region and remain highly vigilant about the negative impact of the United States' Indo-Pacific strategy on peace and stability in the region”. The two of them went on to claim in this regard that they have “made consistent efforts to build an equitable, open and inclusive security system in the Asia-Pacific Region (APR) that is not directed against third countries and that promotes peace, stability and prosperity”. They also expressed concern over the “formation of the trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom (AUKUS)”, alleging that “such actions are contrary to the objectives of security and sustainable development of the Asia-Pacific region---“. Opposing the “further enlargement of NATO” Russia and China called on the NATO “to abandon its ideologised cold war approaches---“ Watch | Countering China's influence in the Pacific: The US promises a new Pacific initiative × From the US perspective, China is a key factor and Taiwan is a potential flash point in the Indo-Pacific region. The USA has repeatedly warned China against any military action in Taiwan. It remains to be seen whether China will be emboldened by Russia’s military action in Ukraine and embark on any adventure to integrate Taiwan with mainland by use of force or will it be deterred by the resolute, concerted and united stand taken by the US and allies in support of Ukraine and to isolate and weaken Russia. Also Read | China launches 'most advanced' aircraft carrier called Fujian. Find out why it is special Besides the international geopolitical and strategic affairs, the Russia-Ukraine conflict is also causing an adverse impact in areas of energy and food security. The punitive sanctions on imports of Russian oil and gas have pushed the energy prices worldwide creating a difficult situation particularly in poor and developing countries which are witnessing high inflation as a cascading effect of costlier energy. Europe depends heavily on Russia for its requirements of energy resources, particularly natural gas. Any interruption in supplies will have a serious impact on gas-operated industries and in turn on economy. While EU has followed the USA in imposing sanctions on Russia in many other areas, the energy sector is one where Europe is finding itself in a tight spot. After prolonged deliberations, the EU decided (30th May) on some partial measures when it announced its decision to cut its 90% oil imports from Russia by end of the year. Russia and Ukraine are major suppliers of wheat accounting for 30% of global needs. In addition, the two countries also are major suppliers of edible oil and fertilisers. The war has created serious disruptions in supplies to global markets as a result of which the food prices have soared and the world is facing a serious food crisis. Several countries, including India, have imposed full or partial ban on food exports keeping in mind their own food security. In an alarming statement, the UN Secretary-General said last month that the shortages of grain and fertilisers due to war could cause “mass hunger and famine” and these shortages threaten to “tip tens of millions of people over the edge into food insecurity” He warned that the global food crisis could last for years unless checked. In this context, the World Bank is reported to have announced an additional $12bn in funding to mitigate its “devastating effects” When the armed conflict broke out on 24th February, most experts thought it will be over in a week or so but has already crossed 100 days mark and there are no signs of any breakthrough. More importantly, the USA doesn’t seem to be interested in early resolution of the conflict. Russia has gone too far and unlikely to retract unless its bottom-line objectives of gaining control over east Ukraine is achieved. It is a matter of speculation at this point of time how long and how much the rest of the world, particularly poor and developing countries, will have to bear the short and long-term adverse impact due to big-powers rivalry. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia-Ukraine: Brace for a prolonged conflict and big power rivalries

Russia claims it has destroyed a NATO arms depot in western Ukraine, this as president Volodymyr Zelenskyy again called on the West to speed up arms deliveries to the war-torn nation.

Russia destroys NATO weapons depot, Zelensky urges West for quick arms delivery

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia on Wednesday (June 15) said that it has destroyed an ammunition warehouse for weapons in Ukraine's western Lviv region. The weapons were apparently donated by NATO countries. The Russian defence ministry said some of the ammunition was to be used for US-produced M777 howitzers, a type of artillery weapon. In a statement, the Russian defence ministry said: "Near the town of Zolochiv in Lviv region, high-precision long-range Kalibr missiles destroyed an ammunition depot of foreign weapons transferred to Ukraine by NATO countries, including 155-mm M777 howitzers. Recently, Russia has made claims that it has targeted weapons in Ukraine, which were said to be supplied by the West. Moscow also claimed that they have destroyed such arms depots. Russia has constantly criticised the West for supplying weapons to Ukraine and accused the NATO nations that they have aggravated the crisis. Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned the United States saying that Russia would strike new targets if the West supplied longer-range missiles to Ukraine for use in high-precision mobile rocket systems. Meanwhile, Ukraine said on Tuesday it had received just 10 per cent of the weapons it requested from the West to deter Russia's military intervention. UK to deliver rocket launchers UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said Wednesday that Britain will soon deliver multiple-launch rocket systems to Ukraine. London had announced on June 6 that it would send Ukraine its Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System, which has better range and precision than Russia's artillery. "I think it's imminent, their delivery, and the munition has to go alongside", Wallace told reporters in Oslo on the sidelines of a meeting of the Joint Expeditionary Force grouping 10 Northern European countries. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia says howitzers among other NATO weapons destroyed in western Ukraine

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said, security concerns raised by Turkiye in its opposition to Finland’s and Sweden’s NATO membership bid are legitimate. He added, this is about terrorism, it’s about weapons exports.

'Turkiye's concern on Finland, Sweden membership are legitimate,' says NATO chief

Security concerns raised by Turkey in its opposition to Finland's and Sweden's NATO membership applications are legitimate, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Sunday during a visit to Finland.

"These are legitimate concerns. This is about terrorism, it's about weapons exports" , Stoltenberg told a joint news conference with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto while visiting him at his summer residence in Naantali, Finland.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/double-standards-haunt-us-and-europe-in-nato-dispute-with-turkey-486083">Double standards haunt US and Europe in NATO dispute with Turkey</a>

Sweden and Finland applied to join the Western defence alliance last month, in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. But they have faced opposition from Turkey, which has accused them of supporting and harbouring Kurdish militants and other groups it deems terrorists.

Stoltenberg said Turkey was a key ally for the alliance due to its strategic location on the Black Sea between Europe and the Middle East, and cited the support it has provided to Ukraine since Russia sent troops into its neighbour on Feb. 24.

Watch |&nbsp;Baltops 2022: NATO allies take part in military drills in Baltic sea, Russia also holds drills

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Moscow calls its actions a "special military operation".

"We have to remember and understand that no NATO ally has suffered more terrorist attacks than Turkiye", Stoltenberg said, using the Turkish pronunciation of the country's name, as preferred by Turkey and its President Tayyip Erdogan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-prime-minister-fumio-kishida-considers-joining-nato-summit-in-spain-report-485321">Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida considers joining NATO summit in Spain: Report</a>

Stoltenberg and Niinisto said talks with Turkey would continue but gave no indication of progress in the negotiations.

"The summit in Madrid was never a deadline", Stoltenberg said, referring to a NATO meeting in Madrid at the end of June.

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Security concerns raised by Turkey in its opposition to Finland's and Sweden's NATO membership applications are legitimate, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Sunday during a visit to Finland.

Security concerns raised by Turkey in its opposition to Finland's and Sweden's NATO membership applications are legitimate, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Sunday during a visit to Finland. "These are legitimate concerns. This is about terrorism, it's about weapons exports" , Stoltenberg told a joint news conference with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto while visiting him at his summer residence in Naantali, Finland. Also read | Double standards haunt US and Europe in NATO dispute with Turkey Sweden and Finland applied to join the Western defence alliance last month, in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. But they have faced opposition from Turkey, which has accused them of supporting and harbouring Kurdish militants and other groups it deems terrorists. Stoltenberg said Turkey was a key ally for the alliance due to its strategic location on the Black Sea between Europe and the Middle East, and cited the support it has provided to Ukraine since Russia sent troops into its neighbour on Feb. 24. Watch | Baltops 2022: NATO allies take part in military drills in Baltic sea, Russia also holds drills Moscow calls its actions a "special military operation". "We have to remember and understand that no NATO ally has suffered more terrorist attacks than Turkiye", Stoltenberg said, using the Turkish pronunciation of the country's name, as preferred by Turkey and its President Tayyip Erdogan. Also read | Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida considers joining NATO summit in Spain: Report Stoltenberg and Niinisto said talks with Turkey would continue but gave no indication of progress in the negotiations. "The summit in Madrid was never a deadline", Stoltenberg said, referring to a NATO meeting in Madrid at the end of June. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NATO chief Stoltenberg says Turkey's security concerns are legitimate

NATO allies are currently holding military drills in the Baltic sea. Now, Russia has also conducted drills amid NATO exercises. 9 European nations have been urged to beef up security.

Baltops 2022: NATO allies take part in military drills in Baltic sea, Russia also holds drills

US and European acquiescence in Turkey's long-standing refusal to honour Kurdish ethnic, cultural, and political rights has come home to roost with Turkish opposition to Finnish and Swedish NATO membership.

The opposition has sparked debates about Turkey's controversial place in the North Atlantic defense alliance.

Turkey’s detractors point to its problematic military intervention in Syria, relations with Russia, refusal to sanction Moscow, and alleged fuelling of tension in the eastern Mediterranean, calling the country’s NATO membership into question.

Its defenders note that Turkey, NATO’s second-largest standing military, is key to maintaining the alliance’s southern flank. Also, Turkey’s geography, population size, economy, military power, and cultural links to a Turkic world make it a critical link between Europe and Asia. In addition, Turkish drones have been vital in Ukraine's war with Russia, while Turkey has been a mediator in the conflict, albeit with limited success.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-foreign-minister-visits-turkey-to-discuss-ukraine-grain-exports-486080">Russian foreign minister visits Turkey to discuss Ukraine grain exports</a>

Kurdish rights hardly figure in the debates, and if they do, only as a prop for taking Turkey to task for its slide into authoritarianism.

An ethnic group spread across southeastern Turkey, northern Iraq, northern Syria, and western Iran, Kurds are seen at best as assets in the fight against the Islamic State and at worst a threat to Turkish security and territorial integrity. Turkey's estimated 16 million Kurds account for up to 20 per cent of the country's population.

Turkey, or Turkiye as it wants to be known going forward, has used the security argument to make its agreement to Swedish and Finnish NATO membership dependent on the two Nordic countries effectively accepting its definition of terrorism as including any national expression of Kurdish identity.

Turkey has demanded that Sweden and Finland extradite 33 people, some of whom are Swedish or Finnish nationals, because of their alleged support for the Kurdish Workers Party (PKK) or exiled preacher Fethullah Gulen, whom President Recep Tayyip Erdogan holds responsible for a failed military coup in 2016.

Turkey accuses the two Nordic countries of allowing the PKK to organize on their territory. Alongside the United States and the European Union, Turkey has designated the PKK as a terrorist organisation. The PKK has waged a decades-long insurgency against Turkey in which tens of thousands have been killed.

Turkey also wants Sweden and Finland to support its military operation against the People's Protection Units (YPG), a US-backed Syrian Kurdish group that played a crucial role in defeating the Islamic State. Turkey asserts that the YPG is an extension of the PKK.

Mr. Erdogan recently announced that Turkey would launch a new military operation to extend the Turkish armed forces' areas of control in Syria to a 30-kilometer swath of land along the two countries shared border. The offensive would target the YPG in the towns of Tel Rifaat and Manbij and possibly Kobani, Ain Issa, and Tell Tamer.

Watch | Ankara renews military offensive threats; Russia warns Turkiye against Syrian offensive

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&nbsp;

Past US and European failure to stand up for Kurdish rights, as part of Turkey's need to meet the criteria for NATO membership that include "fair treatment of minority populations," has complicated the fight against the Islamic State, stymied Kurdish aspirations beyond Turkey's borders and enabled repression of Kurdish rights in Turkey.

More immediately, the failure to hold Turkey accountable for its repression of Kurdish ethnic and political rights within the framework of the Turkish state has enabled Ankara to establish Turkish policies as a condition for NATO membership even if they violate NATO membership criteria.

Those policies include defining the peaceful expression of Kurdish identity as terrorism and the rolling back of Kurdish language and cultural rights since the collapse in 2015 of peace talks with the PKK. Turkey lifted the ban on Kurdish languages and the word Kurd in 1991. Until then, Kurds were referred to as ‘mountain Turks.’

The governor of the southeastern Turkish province of Diyarbakir, widely seen as a hub of Kurdish cultural and political activity, forced this writer under treat of death to leave the region for using the word Kurd rather than mountain Turk in interviews in the 1980s.

Kurdish language programs in universities have dwindled in recent years amid administrative hurdles, while Kurdish parents complain of pressure not to enroll their children in elective Kurdish courses.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-walks-out-of-security-council-meeting-after-eu-blames-kremlin-for-looming-food-crisis-485958">Russia walks out of Security Council meeting after EU blames Kremlin for looming food crisis</a>

Most Kurdish-language services and activities created by local administrations were terminated by government-appointed trustees who replaced dozens of Kurdish mayors ousted by Ankara for alleged links to the PKK. Many of the ousted mayors and other leading Kurdish politicians remain behind bars.

The failure to take Turkey to task early on takes on added significance at a time when NATO casts the war in Ukraine as a battle of values and of democracy versus autocracy that will shape the contours of a 21st-century world order.

For his part, US President Joe Biden has sought to regain the moral high ground in the wake of the Trump presidency that broke with American liberalism by declaring “America is back” in the struggle for democratic and human rights.

Mr. Biden and Europe’s problem is that their credibility rides on cleaning up at home and ensuring that they are seen as sincere rather than hypocritical.

That’s a tall order amid assertions of structural racism on both sides of the Atlantic; controversy over gun ownership in the United States; preferential arrangements for Ukrainian refugees as opposed to non-Europeans and non-whites fleeing war, persecution, and destruction; and foreign policies that treat violations of human and political rights differently depending on who commits them.

The obvious place to start is at home. Kurds could be another starting point, with Finnish and Swedish NATO membership on the front burner. Meeting Turkish demands regarding perpetrators of political violence is one thing; acquiescing in the criminalization of legitimate Kurdish political and cultural expression is another.

That may be a tough bargain to drive home in Ankara. However, it would offer a compromise formula that could serve everyone’s interest and help Turkey solve a problem that promises to be one of the Middle East’s multiple exploding powder kegs.

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&nbsp;

US and European acquiescence in Turkey's long-standing refusal to honour Kurdish ethnic, cultural, and political rights has come home to roost with Turkish opposition to Finnish and Swedish NATO membership.

US and European acquiescence in Turkey's long-standing refusal to honour Kurdish ethnic, cultural, and political rights has come home to roost with Turkish opposition to Finnish and Swedish NATO membership. The opposition has sparked debates about Turkey's controversial place in the North Atlantic defense alliance. Turkey’s detractors point to its problematic military intervention in Syria, relations with Russia, refusal to sanction Moscow, and alleged fuelling of tension in the eastern Mediterranean, calling the country’s NATO membership into question. Its defenders note that Turkey, NATO’s second-largest standing military, is key to maintaining the alliance’s southern flank. Also, Turkey’s geography, population size, economy, military power, and cultural links to a Turkic world make it a critical link between Europe and Asia. In addition, Turkish drones have been vital in Ukraine's war with Russia, while Turkey has been a mediator in the conflict, albeit with limited success. Also Read | Russian foreign minister visits Turkey to discuss Ukraine grain exports Kurdish rights hardly figure in the debates, and if they do, only as a prop for taking Turkey to task for its slide into authoritarianism. An ethnic group spread across southeastern Turkey, northern Iraq, northern Syria, and western Iran, Kurds are seen at best as assets in the fight against the Islamic State and at worst a threat to Turkish security and territorial integrity. Turkey's estimated 16 million Kurds account for up to 20 per cent of the country's population. Turkey, or Turkiye as it wants to be known going forward, has used the security argument to make its agreement to Swedish and Finnish NATO membership dependent on the two Nordic countries effectively accepting its definition of terrorism as including any national expression of Kurdish identity. Turkey has demanded that Sweden and Finland extradite 33 people, some of whom are Swedish or Finnish nationals, because of their alleged support for the Kurdish Workers Party (PKK) or exiled preacher Fethullah Gulen, whom President Recep Tayyip Erdogan holds responsible for a failed military coup in 2016. Turkey accuses the two Nordic countries of allowing the PKK to organize on their territory. Alongside the United States and the European Union, Turkey has designated the PKK as a terrorist organisation. The PKK has waged a decades-long insurgency against Turkey in which tens of thousands have been killed. Turkey also wants Sweden and Finland to support its military operation against the People's Protection Units (YPG), a US-backed Syrian Kurdish group that played a crucial role in defeating the Islamic State. Turkey asserts that the YPG is an extension of the PKK. Mr. Erdogan recently announced that Turkey would launch a new military operation to extend the Turkish armed forces' areas of control in Syria to a 30-kilometer swath of land along the two countries shared border. The offensive would target the YPG in the towns of Tel Rifaat and Manbij and possibly Kobani, Ain Issa, and Tell Tamer. Watch | Ankara renews military offensive threats; Russia warns Turkiye against Syrian offensive × Past US and European failure to stand up for Kurdish rights, as part of Turkey's need to meet the criteria for NATO membership that include "fair treatment of minority populations," has complicated the fight against the Islamic State, stymied Kurdish aspirations beyond Turkey's borders and enabled repression of Kurdish rights in Turkey. More immediately, the failure to hold Turkey accountable for its repression of Kurdish ethnic and political rights within the framework of the Turkish state has enabled Ankara to establish Turkish policies as a condition for NATO membership even if they violate NATO membership criteria. Those policies include defining the peaceful expression of Kurdish identity as terrorism and the rolling back of Kurdish language and cultural rights since the collapse in 2015 of peace talks with the PKK. Turkey lifted the ban on Kurdish languages and the word Kurd in 1991. Until then, Kurds were referred to as ‘mountain Turks.’ The governor of the southeastern Turkish province of Diyarbakir, widely seen as a hub of Kurdish cultural and political activity, forced this writer under treat of death to leave the region for using the word Kurd rather than mountain Turk in interviews in the 1980s. Kurdish language programs in universities have dwindled in recent years amid administrative hurdles, while Kurdish parents complain of pressure not to enroll their children in elective Kurdish courses. Also Read | Russia walks out of Security Council meeting after EU blames Kremlin for looming food crisis Most Kurdish-language services and activities created by local administrations were terminated by government-appointed trustees who replaced dozens of Kurdish mayors ousted by Ankara for alleged links to the PKK. Many of the ousted mayors and other leading Kurdish politicians remain behind bars. The failure to take Turkey to task early on takes on added significance at a time when NATO casts the war in Ukraine as a battle of values and of democracy versus autocracy that will shape the contours of a 21st-century world order. For his part, US President Joe Biden has sought to regain the moral high ground in the wake of the Trump presidency that broke with American liberalism by declaring “America is back” in the struggle for democratic and human rights. Mr. Biden and Europe’s problem is that their credibility rides on cleaning up at home and ensuring that they are seen as sincere rather than hypocritical. That’s a tall order amid assertions of structural racism on both sides of the Atlantic; controversy over gun ownership in the United States; preferential arrangements for Ukrainian refugees as opposed to non-Europeans and non-whites fleeing war, persecution, and destruction; and foreign policies that treat violations of human and political rights differently depending on who commits them. The obvious place to start is at home. Kurds could be another starting point, with Finnish and Swedish NATO membership on the front burner. Meeting Turkish demands regarding perpetrators of political violence is one thing; acquiescing in the criminalization of legitimate Kurdish political and cultural expression is another. That may be a tough bargain to drive home in Ankara. However, it would offer a compromise formula that could serve everyone’s interest and help Turkey solve a problem that promises to be one of the Middle East’s multiple exploding powder kegs. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Double standards haunt US and Europe in NATO dispute with Turkey

Sweden's government said Tuesday it had clinched a last-minute deal to ensure its justice minister would survive a no-confidence vote in parliament, averting a political crisis.

The deal stems from winning the support of an independent lawmaker who is determined that Stockholm does not cave into Turkish conditions for supporting Sweden's bid to join NATO.

The potential crisis comes just three months ahead of general elections and less than a year after the Social Democratic government was toppled and then returned to power within weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/talks-will-clarify-misunderstandings-sweden-and-finland-attempt-to-overcome-turkeys-objection-482364">'Talks will clarify misunderstandings,' Sweden and Finland attempt to overcome Turkey's objection</a>

The no-confidence vote, which is scheduled to be held in parliament at 12:00 pm (1000 GMT), was launched by the far-right Sweden Democrats who accuse Justice Minister Morgan Johansson of failing to stem rising gang violence.

Sweden has struggled to reduce the shootings and bombings that have plagued the country in recent years, usually due to gangland rivalries or organised criminals battling over the drug market.

"We have reached a point where the single most important crime policy measure is to give Morgan Johansson an early retirement," Sweden Democrat MP Henrik Vinge told parliament last week.

The conservative Moderate Party along with the Liberal Party and the Christian Democrats had announced that they would support the motion.

Those four parties control 174 seats in parliament but they needed one more vote for the motion to pass.

If parliament were to vote against Johansson, he would have lost his job.

Andersson made it clear last week that she would resign if a no-confidence vote passed against Johansson, saying all government decisions are made collectively.

Assurances on Turkey

With one vote missing, the situation hinged on parliamentarian Amineh Kakabaveh, a former Left Party member sitting in parliament as an independent since 2019.

Kakabaveh, who is of Iranian-Kurdish origin, has become a focal point in Swedish politics over Turkey's opposition to Stockholm's bid to join NATO.

Ankara accuses Stockholm of providing a haven for the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), listed as a "terrorist" group by Turkey and its Western allies, and has demanded the extradition of people it considers extremists and the lifting of a weapons embargo.&nbsp;

Kakabaveh, who has no direct political link to the PKK, had sought assurances that the ruling Social Democrats would not cave into Turkish demands, saying otherwise she would vote against Johansson.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-behind-turkeys-syria-incursion-threats-485142">What is behind Turkey’s Syria incursion threats?</a>

Early Tuesday, Kakabaveh told Swedish media she had received the assurances she wanted.

Last November, she and the government reached an agreement in which she would provide the casting vote to bring the cabinet into power in exchange for deeper cooperation with the Democratic Union Party (PYD), the political arm of the main Syrian Kurdish militia, the YPG.

Turkey also deems the YPG militia as "terrorists".

The Social Democratic government confirmed Tuesday the deal was still in force, implying it was prepared to stand up to Erdogan's demands.

"I'm satisfied," Kakabaveh said.

Analysts had pointed out that even if Andersson did resign, she would likely have remained prime minister of an interim government with general elections scheduled in September.

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Sweden's government said Tuesday it had clinched a last-minute deal to ensure its justice minister would survive a no-confidence vote in parliament, averting a political crisis.

Sweden's government said Tuesday it had clinched a last-minute deal to ensure its justice minister would survive a no-confidence vote in parliament, averting a political crisis. The deal stems from winning the support of an independent lawmaker who is determined that Stockholm does not cave into Turkish conditions for supporting Sweden's bid to join NATO. The potential crisis comes just three months ahead of general elections and less than a year after the Social Democratic government was toppled and then returned to power within weeks. Also read | 'Talks will clarify misunderstandings,' Sweden and Finland attempt to overcome Turkey's objection The no-confidence vote, which is scheduled to be held in parliament at 12:00 pm (1000 GMT), was launched by the far-right Sweden Democrats who accuse Justice Minister Morgan Johansson of failing to stem rising gang violence. Sweden has struggled to reduce the shootings and bombings that have plagued the country in recent years, usually due to gangland rivalries or organised criminals battling over the drug market. "We have reached a point where the single most important crime policy measure is to give Morgan Johansson an early retirement," Sweden Democrat MP Henrik Vinge told parliament last week. The conservative Moderate Party along with the Liberal Party and the Christian Democrats had announced that they would support the motion. Those four parties control 174 seats in parliament but they needed one more vote for the motion to pass. If parliament were to vote against Johansson, he would have lost his job. Andersson made it clear last week that she would resign if a no-confidence vote passed against Johansson, saying all government decisions are made collectively. Assurances on Turkey With one vote missing, the situation hinged on parliamentarian Amineh Kakabaveh, a former Left Party member sitting in parliament as an independent since 2019. Kakabaveh, who is of Iranian-Kurdish origin, has become a focal point in Swedish politics over Turkey's opposition to Stockholm's bid to join NATO. Ankara accuses Stockholm of providing a haven for the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), listed as a "terrorist" group by Turkey and its Western allies, and has demanded the extradition of people it considers extremists and the lifting of a weapons embargo. Kakabaveh, who has no direct political link to the PKK, had sought assurances that the ruling Social Democrats would not cave into Turkish demands, saying otherwise she would vote against Johansson. Also read | What is behind Turkey’s Syria incursion threats? Early Tuesday, Kakabaveh told Swedish media she had received the assurances she wanted. Last November, she and the government reached an agreement in which she would provide the casting vote to bring the cabinet into power in exchange for deeper cooperation with the Democratic Union Party (PYD), the political arm of the main Syrian Kurdish militia, the YPG. Turkey also deems the YPG militia as "terrorists". The Social Democratic government confirmed Tuesday the deal was still in force, implying it was prepared to stand up to Erdogan's demands. "I'm satisfied," Kakabaveh said. Analysts had pointed out that even if Andersson did resign, she would likely have remained prime minister of an interim government with general elections scheduled in September. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Swedish government averts political crisis with last-minute deal

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Finland has applied for NATO membership. Around 300 Finnish women have signed up for military training.

As Finland applies for NATO membership, Finnish women sign up for military training

Sri Lanka is battling its worst economic crisis in decades. The new PM and his administration is working towards pulling it back from Bankruptcy.

Pulling Sri Lanka back from Bankruptcy: Sri Lanka needs $6 billion to keep afloat

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to attend a summit of leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), news agency Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter said.&nbsp;

The summit is scheduled for late June in Spain and if he attends, it will make him the first Japanese leader to take part in a NATO summit, a gathering of the Western alliance.&nbsp;

Kishida's attendance at the June 29 to 30 event in Madrid is dependent on the domestic political situation leading up to a House of Councillors election likely to be held July 10, the sources said.&nbsp;

A report by Kyodo News mentioned citing sources that the scenario of Kishida's attendance at the event in Madrid is dependent on the House of Councillors election, which is likely to happen on July 10. The NATO summit will be held from June 29 to 30.&nbsp;

Kishida's decision regarding the summit will be finalised after the country's domestic political situation is sorted. However, the Japan-based news agency reported that a government spokesman said officials would be unable to comment on the matter.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NATO has invited Japan to the summit, along with Australia, New Zealand and South Korea as its partners in the Asia-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The sources, who asked not to be named, told Reuters that Kishida plans to arrive in Madrid after attending a meeting of the Group of Seven (G7) industrialized nations in Germany.&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Kishida's presence at the summit would be&nbsp;treated as a strong message of international solidarity during the crisis, Kyodo's sources noted.&nbsp;

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to attend a summit of leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), news agency Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter said.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to attend a summit of leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), news agency Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter said. The summit is scheduled for late June in Spain and if he attends, it will make him the first Japanese leader to take part in a NATO summit, a gathering of the Western alliance. Kishida's attendance at the June 29 to 30 event in Madrid is dependent on the domestic political situation leading up to a House of Councillors election likely to be held July 10, the sources said. A report by Kyodo News mentioned citing sources that the scenario of Kishida's attendance at the event in Madrid is dependent on the House of Councillors election, which is likely to happen on July 10. The NATO summit will be held from June 29 to 30. Kishida's decision regarding the summit will be finalised after the country's domestic political situation is sorted. However, the Japan-based news agency reported that a government spokesman said officials would be unable to comment on the matter. Meanwhile, NATO has invited Japan to the summit, along with Australia, New Zealand and South Korea as its partners in the Asia-Pacific region. The sources, who asked not to be named, told Reuters that Kishida plans to arrive in Madrid after attending a meeting of the Group of Seven (G7) industrialized nations in Germany. Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Kishida's presence at the summit would be treated as a strong message of international solidarity during the crisis, Kyodo's sources noted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida considers joining NATO summit in Spain: Report

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO nations are holding exercise in Baltic sea. The move is expected to anger Russia.

NATO holds exercise in the Baltic sea: Move expected to anger Russia

What is behind Turkey’s Syria incursion threats?

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is planning a military incursion into Syria to drive back Kurdish fighters. Both Russia and the US have warned Erdogan against destabilising Syria. Will Turkey's military plans drag NATO and Russia into a new conflict? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you.

Gravitas: Is Turkey planning to invade Syria?

In April, as the world was occupied with Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, a NATO member launched an attack on two of its neighboring territories. In a bombing campaign, Turkey targeted the camps of Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria, inflicting damage on shelters, ammunition depots and bases.

The irony went largely unnoticed. That’s hardly a surprise: For a long time, the Western world has turned a blind eye to Turkey’s heavy-handed treatment of the Kurds. Across decades, the Turkish state has persecuted the Kurdish minority — about 18 percent of the population — with devastating zeal. Thousands have perished and around a million have been displaced in a campaign of severe internal repression. But Western nations, except for a brief spell when Kurdish resistance was holding back an ascendant Islamic State, have rarely seemed to care.

Turkey’s treatment of the Kurds is now center stage — but not because allies have woken up to the injustice of Kurds’ systematic oppression. Instead, it’s because Turkey is effectively threatening to block the admittance of Finland and Sweden to NATO unless they agree to crack down on Kurdish militants. For President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, seeing an opportunity to further cement his nationalist agenda, it’s a bold gambit. The tepid response from NATO allies so far suggests he might be successful.

However the situation shakes out, it’s deeply revealing. For Turkey, it underlines once again the vigor with which Mr. Erdogan is keen to stamp out the Kurds while asserting the country as a regional power. For the alliance itself, the impasse brings to light facts currently obscured by its makeover as a purely defensive organization. NATO, which has long acquiesced in the persecution of the Kurds, is far from a force for peace. And Turkey, a member since 1952, proves it.

Turkey’s conflict with the Kurds goes back at least to the late 19th century, when Ottoman centralization led to tribal uprisings. The initial two decades of the Turkish Republic, founded in 1923, involved the denial of Kurdish identity, autonomy and language, all of which were mainstays of the Ottoman Empire. Rebellions ensued but were forcibly put down. After remaining largely dormant in the 1940s and 1950s, Kurdish militancy then experienced a revival, under revolutionary banners. The Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or P.K.K., emerged in this atmosphere.

The organization is designated a terrorist group by Turkey, the United States and the European Union — and its methods are indeed violent. Across four decades of conflict, the P.K.K. has contributed to the bloodshed and is responsible for the deaths of civilians as well as security officials. Yet Turkey’s militaristic approach to the Kurdish issue has left little room for other, more conciliatory Kurdish organizations.

The country experienced a spring of Kurdish activism in the late 1960s and 1970s, when many left-wing Turkish movements and organizations also expressed solidarity with the Kurds. But a coup d’état in 1980 heavily crushed these forces, with the exception of the P.K.K., most of whose camps were already outside Turkey. In the years after the coup, the heavy torture suffered by Kurdish activists of various organizations swelled the ranks of the P.K.K. More embittered against the Turkish state than ever, many activists saw no other effective home for their struggle.

Things today aren’t much better: Peaceful forms of Kurdish activism — such as those organized by the legal Peoples’ Democratic Party, or H.D.P. — are under constant attack, accused of affiliation with the P.K.K. The government also claims that the P.K.K. is in cahoots with the Gulen movement, a former ally of the ruling party the government accuses of orchestrating a failed coup attempt in 2016. It is members of these two groups who Mr. Erdogan is demanding Sweden and Finland give up.

Where was NATO in all of this? The 1980 military intervention, at least passively endorsed by the alliance, was led by Kenan Evren, a commander in NATO’s counter-guerilla forces. Western countries kept on providing ample support for campaigns against the Kurds in the following years, even during the exceptionally violent clashes of 1993-95. As hostilities resumed in the 2010s, the West largely neglected internal waves of repression and Turkey’s recurrent incursions into Syria and Iraq, where Kurds have long sought refuge.

If such enabling silence is so persistent, why did Mr. Erdogan choose this particular time to ramp up military adventures? The answer is simple: Elections are around the corner, and the government, overseeing the country’s worst economic crisis in two decades, is counting on jingoism as a remedy for national ills. The ruling party has accordingly ratcheted up its moves against the Kurds, with imprisonment of politicians and journalists, military campaigns abroad and bans on concerts and plays at home.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has apparently further emboldened Mr. Erdogan. It has allowed Turkey to pose as a friend to the West, earning praise for its early blockade of the Black Sea while continuing to pursue its repressive agenda. What’s more, by pushing Sweden and Finland — perceived to be longtime harborers of Kurdish militants — toward NATO, the war has handed Turkey a golden opportunity.

If the United States were to pressure the two countries to accept Turkey’s demands, as Secretary of State Antony Blinken has suggested might happen, it would be more than a policing victory. It would be a rare symbolic triumph. Bombings and cultural bans would be nothing compared with an international admission, sealed by the world’s most powerful country, that Kurdish rights can be waved aside.

It’s tempting to see Turkey as an exceptionally bellicose state. Labeled the “sick man of Europe” in the final days of the Ottoman Empire, the country now appears to be the continent’s belligerent man. But it’s wrong to look at the country in isolation. Mr. Erdogan’s aggression is not his alone. It is enabled, encouraged and buttressed by Western countries, as well as Russia.

In Turkey, this is a provocative claim: The authorities want their citizens, and the world, to believe that “foreigners” and “outside powers” have always supported Kurdish separatism. This quite popular but highly twisted perception of reality says nothing about the weapons, logistical support and consent other countries have abundantly provided in the killing of Kurds.

The United States supplied weapons to Syrian Kurds during their fight against the Islamic State, it’s true. But that’s dwarfed by the sophistication and amount of military equipment that Turkey, home to NATO’s second-largest military, secures thanks to being part of the Western alliance.

The truth is that Turkey’s aggression has gone hand in hand with NATO acceptance, even complicity. It’s no use Western countries lecturing Turkey, or Turkey complaining of Western hypocrisy: They are in it together. Whatever happens with the alliance’s expansion — whether the Kurds are sacrificed on the altar of geopolitical expediency or not — this should be a moment of clarity. In a world of war, no country has a monopoly on violence.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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In April, as the world was occupied with Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, a NATO member launched an attack on two of its neighboring territories. In a bombing campaign, Turkey targeted the camps of Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria, inflicting damage on shelters, ammunition depots and bases.

In April, as the world was occupied with Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, a NATO member launched an attack on two of its neighboring territories. In a bombing campaign, Turkey targeted the camps of Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria, inflicting damage on shelters, ammunition depots and bases. The irony went largely unnoticed. That’s hardly a surprise: For a long time, the Western world has turned a blind eye to Turkey’s heavy-handed treatment of the Kurds. Across decades, the Turkish state has persecuted the Kurdish minority — about 18 percent of the population — with devastating zeal. Thousands have perished and around a million have been displaced in a campaign of severe internal repression. But Western nations, except for a brief spell when Kurdish resistance was holding back an ascendant Islamic State, have rarely seemed to care. Turkey’s treatment of the Kurds is now center stage — but not because allies have woken up to the injustice of Kurds’ systematic oppression. Instead, it’s because Turkey is effectively threatening to block the admittance of Finland and Sweden to NATO unless they agree to crack down on Kurdish militants. For President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, seeing an opportunity to further cement his nationalist agenda, it’s a bold gambit. The tepid response from NATO allies so far suggests he might be successful. However the situation shakes out, it’s deeply revealing. For Turkey, it underlines once again the vigor with which Mr. Erdogan is keen to stamp out the Kurds while asserting the country as a regional power. For the alliance itself, the impasse brings to light facts currently obscured by its makeover as a purely defensive organization. NATO, which has long acquiesced in the persecution of the Kurds, is far from a force for peace. And Turkey, a member since 1952, proves it. Turkey’s conflict with the Kurds goes back at least to the late 19th century, when Ottoman centralization led to tribal uprisings. The initial two decades of the Turkish Republic, founded in 1923, involved the denial of Kurdish identity, autonomy and language, all of which were mainstays of the Ottoman Empire. Rebellions ensued but were forcibly put down. After remaining largely dormant in the 1940s and 1950s, Kurdish militancy then experienced a revival, under revolutionary banners. The Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or P.K.K., emerged in this atmosphere. The organization is designated a terrorist group by Turkey, the United States and the European Union — and its methods are indeed violent. Across four decades of conflict, the P.K.K. has contributed to the bloodshed and is responsible for the deaths of civilians as well as security officials. Yet Turkey’s militaristic approach to the Kurdish issue has left little room for other, more conciliatory Kurdish organizations. The country experienced a spring of Kurdish activism in the late 1960s and 1970s, when many left-wing Turkish movements and organizations also expressed solidarity with the Kurds. But a coup d’état in 1980 heavily crushed these forces, with the exception of the P.K.K., most of whose camps were already outside Turkey. In the years after the coup, the heavy torture suffered by Kurdish activists of various organizations swelled the ranks of the P.K.K. More embittered against the Turkish state than ever, many activists saw no other effective home for their struggle. Things today aren’t much better: Peaceful forms of Kurdish activism — such as those organized by the legal Peoples’ Democratic Party, or H.D.P. — are under constant attack, accused of affiliation with the P.K.K. The government also claims that the P.K.K. is in cahoots with the Gulen movement, a former ally of the ruling party the government accuses of orchestrating a failed coup attempt in 2016. It is members of these two groups who Mr. Erdogan is demanding Sweden and Finland give up. Where was NATO in all of this? The 1980 military intervention, at least passively endorsed by the alliance, was led by Kenan Evren, a commander in NATO’s counter-guerilla forces. Western countries kept on providing ample support for campaigns against the Kurds in the following years, even during the exceptionally violent clashes of 1993-95. As hostilities resumed in the 2010s, the West largely neglected internal waves of repression and Turkey’s recurrent incursions into Syria and Iraq, where Kurds have long sought refuge. If such enabling silence is so persistent, why did Mr. Erdogan choose this particular time to ramp up military adventures? The answer is simple: Elections are around the corner, and the government, overseeing the country’s worst economic crisis in two decades, is counting on jingoism as a remedy for national ills. The ruling party has accordingly ratcheted up its moves against the Kurds, with imprisonment of politicians and journalists, military campaigns abroad and bans on concerts and plays at home. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has apparently further emboldened Mr. Erdogan. It has allowed Turkey to pose as a friend to the West, earning praise for its early blockade of the Black Sea while continuing to pursue its repressive agenda. What’s more, by pushing Sweden and Finland — perceived to be longtime harborers of Kurdish militants — toward NATO, the war has handed Turkey a golden opportunity. If the United States were to pressure the two countries to accept Turkey’s demands, as Secretary of State Antony Blinken has suggested might happen, it would be more than a policing victory. It would be a rare symbolic triumph. Bombings and cultural bans would be nothing compared with an international admission, sealed by the world’s most powerful country, that Kurdish rights can be waved aside. It’s tempting to see Turkey as an exceptionally bellicose state. Labeled the “sick man of Europe” in the final days of the Ottoman Empire, the country now appears to be the continent’s belligerent man. But it’s wrong to look at the country in isolation. Mr. Erdogan’s aggression is not his alone. It is enabled, encouraged and buttressed by Western countries, as well as Russia. In Turkey, this is a provocative claim: The authorities want their citizens, and the world, to believe that “foreigners” and “outside powers” have always supported Kurdish separatism. This quite popular but highly twisted perception of reality says nothing about the weapons, logistical support and consent other countries have abundantly provided in the killing of Kurds. The United States supplied weapons to Syrian Kurds during their fight against the Islamic State, it’s true. But that’s dwarfed by the sophistication and amount of military equipment that Turkey, home to NATO’s second-largest military, secures thanks to being part of the Western alliance. The truth is that Turkey’s aggression has gone hand in hand with NATO acceptance, even complicity. It’s no use Western countries lecturing Turkey, or Turkey complaining of Western hypocrisy: They are in it together. Whatever happens with the alliance’s expansion — whether the Kurds are sacrificed on the altar of geopolitical expediency or not — this should be a moment of clarity. In a world of war, no country has a monopoly on violence. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey shows what NATO really is

Swedish and Finnish delegations are in Turkey to discuss their differences regarding their membership bids to join NATO after Ankara voiced concerns over the Nordic countries’ support for terrorist groups.

Swedish, Finnish delegations in Turkey to discuss NATO bids

Sweden and Finland are trying to overcome Turkey's strong objections to the Nordic nations bids to join NATO. Swedish and Finnish delegations visited Turkey after submitting their written applications to join NATO last week.

'Talks will clarify misunderstandings,' Sweden and Finland attempt to overcome Turkey's objection

nato

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