Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo sparked controversy after criticizing Türkiye during his appearance at an economic forum held in Greek Cyprus. His remarks raised tensions by questioning Türkiye's foreign policy direction and defense cooperation choices.
Pompeo voiced concern over Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic and military partnerships with both NATO allies and Russia. He described this dual approach as inconsistent with Western strategic expectations.
“Western powers have failed to convince Ankara that NATO membership and Russian weapons ownership represent incompatible positions,” Pompeo stated.
He also commented on the long-standing Cyprus dispute, claiming that Turkish Cypriots favor a comprehensive settlement while suggesting that Turkish leadership is less committed to reaching an agreement. This interpretation appeared to echo the perspectives often expressed by Greek Cypriot officials on the island’s continued division.
Pompeo’s remarks underscored persistent friction between Türkiye and certain NATO members regarding defense procurement policies and geopolitical alignment in an increasingly complex security landscape.
Pompeo’s speech on Greek Cyprus reignited criticism by challenging Türkiye’s balanced diplomacy, exposing renewed strain in NATO relations over defense and regional policy.