Trump and NATO Court Erdoğan, Turkey’s Strongman

At the 2026 NATO Summit in Turkey, alliance leaders focused on Western geopolitical power over democratic values while courting Erdoğan. The summit participants discussed various initiatives within the defense industry and reviewed progress regarding defense spending. Additionally, NATO members reaffirmed their continued support for Ukraine. The gathering in Ankara highlighted a strategic emphasis on military capabilities and geopolitical influence as the alliance navigated its relationship with Turkey's strongman during the high-level diplomatic meetings.