[Reuters]
Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler emphasized the importance of reducing tensions in the Aegean Sea while simultaneously promoting the “Blue Homeland” doctrine, which envisages Turkish influence over vast swaths of the Eastern Mediterranean at the expense of countries in region, like Greece and Cyprus.
Speaking to the Turkish Parliament’s Planning and Budget Committee, Guler highlighted Turkey’s efforts to maintain the Aegean as a “sea of peace” and acknowledged the significant reduction in tensions due to mutual efforts by Turkey and Greece.
However, he also expressed strong opposition to Cyprus’ cooperation with the US and other NATO countries amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, labeling these activities as destabilizing.
He reiterated Turkey’s commitment to protecting its rights and interests in the “Blue Homeland” and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Meanwhile, the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reported on Cyprus’ alleged plan to join NATO, citing a Kathimerini article. The report mentioned that the US lifted its arms embargo on Cyprus four years ago, and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides requested military training and upgrades to NATO standards.
Additionally, Nationalist Movement Party leader Devlet Bahceli called for the immediate removal of US President Joe Biden, criticizing his mental capabilities and decisions.