The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has had a significant impact, not only in the Balkans but also on a global scale. This situation serves as a prime example of our interconnected world. The war has persisted for over a year, leading nations such as Finlandia and Sweden to align with NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) to address the Russian threat. Likewise, Ukraine aspires to NATO membership, but the situation is fraught with complexities. The conflict has disrupted both regional and global stability, prompting states like Turkey, China, the US, and the European Union to adopt specific stances and formulate strategies to safeguard their interests.

Turkey, a NATO member since 1952, has expressed its desire for European Union (EU) membership since the 1990s. President Erdogan has utilized Turkey’s NATO membership to resist the admission of new members, hinting at his country's aspirations for EU inclusion. He has proposed that Turkey's entry into the EU be considered if NATO members endorse Sweden's accession. Despite Erdogan's concerns about new NATO members supporting organizations considered as terrorists by Turkey, he has been unable to fully exploit this issue due to insufficient influence or power. Indeed, Erdogan has missed several opportunities and been compelled to retract decisions under international (largely US) pressure.

On a different note, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan possesses a unique talent for engaging in dialogue with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He played a pivotal role in maintaining the viability of the grain deal, ensuring secure transportation of grain from Ukraine to the global market.

Despite the Turkish president's aspiration to establish Turkey as a regional power, it appears that the nation currently lacks the necessary hard power to wield significant influence on the international stage. Turkey's present impact on global affairs may not yet align with its ambition to be a prominent regional player. Nevertheless, international dynamics remain fluid, as there is no hegemonic power to enforce a semblance of stability. Consequently, a time of anarchy prevails, giving rise to a global security dilemma.

Salih Akpinar is a Ph.D. candidate at the Department of Politics at the University of Ottawa. His research focuses on authoritarian regimes, social movements, and activism in the Middle East and North Africa. He is also interested in Political thought and history.