Türkiye reaffirms its strong stance and strategic expectations within NATO
Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler participated in the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and NATO Defense Ministers’ Meeting held in Brussels on June 4–5, 2025. Güler conveyed Türkiye’s vision for regional security and its unwavering commitment to the alliance. He emphasized that export restrictions among allies hinder defense cooperation and must be lifted to ensure collective security.
Türkiye and the US call for permanent ceasefire in Ukraine
During the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, it was conveyed that President Erdoğan and US President Donald Trump demonstrated a strong will to achieve a lasting ceasefire in Ukraine. Türkiye expressed readiness to host peace talks with Trump’s participation, signaling active diplomatic engagement.
Türkiye highlights 70+ years of NATO commitment
At the NATO Defense Ministers’ Meeting, Türkiye’s over 70 years of alliance membership and contribution to Europe’s security were underlined. Türkiye, which possesses NATO’s second-largest military, remains consistently among the top five contributors to NATO missions and operations.
“Defense capabilities need free flow of technology”
Minister Güler reiterated Türkiye’s strong adherence to Article 3 of the North Atlantic Treaty, focusing on individual and collective capacity building. He stressed that removing remaining export restrictions and barriers that impede defense investments is vital. He also noted that defense spending should be managed wisely and in line with capability goals.
PKK’s disarmament declaration seen as a major turning point
Güler referred to the May 12 announcement by the PKK/KCK terrorist organization to dissolve itself and lay down arms, calling it a significant development. He made it clear that Türkiye will not tolerate any attempts to sabotage or prolong this process.
Call for inclusive and strategic European security approach
He emphasized that European security must be built on inclusion, strategic foresight, and collective solidarity. In this context, Türkiye expects stronger integration of non-EU NATO allies into strategic mechanisms.
Active defense diplomacy with regional partners
On the sidelines of the meeting, Minister Güler held bilateral talks with the defense ministers of Belgium, Latvia, and Ukraine, and trilateral discussions with Bulgaria and Romania. These meetings focused on enhancing cooperation in defense and security.
“Türkiye will continue fulfilling its NATO responsibilities”
Reaffirming Türkiye’s position as a reliable and strong ally, Güler said the country will continue fulfilling its NATO duties. He particularly drew attention to the importance of counter-terrorism efforts and the urgent need to remove export restrictions among allies.
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