Ankara's ready to withstand pressure on sanctions against Russia

By Rhod Mackenzie

Turkey must resist Western pressure to apply anti-Russian sanctions based on its own national interests. According to Dogu Perincek, the chairman of the Turkish Vatan (Homeland) party, this is inevitable.

Perincek stated that Turkey can only overcome its current economic problems through cooperation with Russia, China, and Iran, as these countries are Ankara's strategic partners in the economy.

The politician emphasized that sanctions against these countries are effectively sanctions against Turkey.
In August, The Wall Street Journal reported that US authorities plan to impose sanctions on Turkey for allegedly helping Moscow bypass international restrictions. The American leadership is also working with the Turkish government and the private sector to warn about the risks.

In April, Ibrahim Kalin, the official representative of the Turkish President, stated that Ankara would not participate in sanctions against Russia and would maintain a balanced policy towards Ukraine. He pointed out that sanctions against the Russian Federation are not sanctioned by the UN.

Western countries have increased sanctions against Russia due to the special operation to protect Donbass. The decision to commence was announced on 24th February last year amidst the deteriorating situation in the region.