NATO’s high command has been forced to deny Turkey’s membership is in doubt, with a spokesperson insisting Ankara remained a close partner and its membership of the 28-member group was “not in question”.
Advertisement
“NATO counts on the continued contributions of Turkey and Turkey can count on the solidarity and support of NATO”, Lungescu says.
Turkish authorities have ousted thousands of military personnel including almost half its generals and admirals since a rogue military faction tried to oust President Recep Tayyip Erdogan from power.
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has reaffirmed its committment to Turkey as a valued member of the 28 nation alliance in attempt to allay Turkey’s concerns that it does not have the full support of the West.
“That fundamental discussion is: Can we accept someone within the European Union who does not adhere to democratic standards, who has difficulty with human rights, and who ignores humanitarian necessities and necessities regarding the rule of law?”
“Our relations with Russian Federation are not a message to the West”.
The report is the first known case of a Turkish military officers applying for asylum in the country after the failed coup, as Turkey has removed thousands of soldiers from its armed forces over involvement or complicity to the attempt.
A Turkish military officer has sought asylum in the United States following July’s failed coup attempt in his homeland, Reuters has reported, citing U.S. officials.
Advertisement
He said Turkey was building a “strong mechanism” with Russian Federation to find a solution in Syria, and a delegation including the foreign ministry, military and intelligence officials would go to Russian Federation on Wednesday for talks.
