The European Parliament voted against restarting EU membership talks with Turkey due to the ongoing crackdown on political opponents and protesters.

MEPs emphasized that business as usual with Turkey is no longer an option given the current circumstances.

Despite the strained relations, the EU is reluctant to completely sever ties with Turkey, recognizing its strategic importance within NATO.

Ankara’s interests in Ukraine also align with those of the EU, creating a complex balancing act for European policymakers.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s crackdown on dissent has raised concerns about human rights violations and democratic backsliding in Turkey.

The EU is facing pressure to take a stronger stance against Turkey’s authoritarian turn while maintaining cooperation on key issues.

The delicate situation highlights the challenges of balancing values-based foreign policy with strategic considerations.

The future of EU-Turkey relations remains uncertain as both sides navigate conflicting priorities and interests.

The evolving dynamic between the EU and Turkey reflects broader geopolitical shifts in the region and beyond.