Brussels: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's recent remarks suggesting the European Union must "complete the European continent so that it is not influenced by Russia, Trkiye, or China" have sparked widespread criticism from analysts.
According to Anadolu Agency, von der Leyen's comments, made at an event celebrating the 80th anniversary of the German newspaper Die Zeit in Hamburg, reiterated her support for EU enlargement but controversially grouped Trkiye alongside Russia and China. This prompted a clarification from the European Commission, which emphasized Trkiye's significant role as an economic and political partner, noting its geopolitical weight rather than any direct comparison.
An EU Commission spokesperson highlighted Trkiye's strategic importance in areas like connectivity initiatives, including the Trans-Caspian Middle Corridor, migration management, and its status as a NATO ally and EU candidate country, describing Ankara as a "key interlocutor." Despite these acknowledgments, experts strongly criticized the tone and implications of von der Leyen's statement.
Timothy Ash, associate fellow at Chatham House, expressed astonishment at the remarks, emphasizing Trkiye's loyalty as a NATO ally and EU candidate. He noted that Turkish forces play a crucial role in defending Europe's borders, especially in an environment where Europe faces existential threats from Russia and uncertainties about US support. Ash argued that Trkiye, with its robust military and industrial capabilities, could significantly contribute to Europe's defense needs.
The European Union faces challenges in developing a unified defense and security capacity, which limits its ability to act independently in a turbulent geopolitical landscape. Despite initiatives under the Common Security and Defense Policy, the EU remains constrained by fragmented military structures, uneven defense spending, and divergent strategic priorities among member states. The reliance on NATO, particularly the US, for critical capabilities highlights the gap between political ambition and operational readiness.
Riccardo Gasco, foreign policy coordinator at the think tank IstanPol, noted the EU's persistent ambiguity toward Trkiye. While recognizing Ankara's importance in security, defense, migration, and regional diplomacy, parts of the EU still view it as a geopolitical influence to manage rather than a partner to integrate. Gasco warned that distancing Trkiye could be politically counterproductive and strategically shortsighted, especially given Europe's current limitations in defense and economic strategy.
He emphasized that Trkiye remains a candidate country, a NATO ally, and a crucial actor in Europe's broader security architecture. Gasco criticized the dismissive language used toward a country that retains EU candidate status, particularly as Europe debates enlargement, security, and its future geopolitical direction.
Messaging within the EU appears divided, as the Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos recently told European lawmakers that the bloc "needs Trkiye in light of the changing geopolitical realities in Europe and the Middle East." She highlighted Trkiye as the EU's fifth-largest trading partner and essential for trade routes between Europe and Asia, noting its role in any peace settlement for Ukraine and the new security environment in the Black Sea region.
Gasco pointed out that differing messages from von der Leyen and Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos illustrate an internal duality within the EU. While one approach remains cautious and politically driven, shaped by longstanding tensions, the other is more geopolitical and interest-based, recognizing that cooperation with Trkiye is essential. This internal inconsistency reflects the strategic necessity for engagement, despite persistent political hesitation.