#3. SS: Reports say that the ouster of Assad was a deal between Turkey and Russia; however, other reports claim that Turkey betrayed Russia in Syria. In your opinion, what really happened in Syria?
UTY: I would like to say that there does not have to be an agreement or betrayal. I find it problematic to interpret it in black and white because there is an ongoing struggle. After all, the opposition was not destroyed by Assad and his supporters. It was there and it was known that one day the opposition would mobilize again. In the Syrian arena, Turkey would certainly show its power and influence to shape events. This was inevitable. We know that Russia and Iran had warned Assad before. Russia even tried very hard to get Assad to sit at the table with Turkey. But Assad had other problems. Instead of building the country economically, militarily and socially, he was trying to reduce Russian and Iranian influence. Of course, with external influences such as Israel's attacks on Hamas and Hezbollah, the priorities in the region have changed and we have reached today.
#4. SS: President Trump will be in office soon. In your opinion, what will the relationship between President Erdogan and Trump look like?
UTY: Trump's inauguration means more uncertainties and problems for the whole world. We are talking about an American president who wants the territory of his closest allies. That is why Erdogan-Trump relations may be volatile. Mr. Erdo?an has worked with Trump before and knows his style. The important thing is to increase the areas of compromise and reduce the problems. Because of the US, a lot of problems have accumulated between the two countries over the years. However, when describing Mr. Trump, we can still call him a big question mark.
#5. SS: Turkey is offering to host peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. In your opinion, does Turkey have a chance to broker a peace deal?
UTY: Turkey was the closest country to signing a peace treaty in the Russia-Ukraine war. Turkey has the chance to broker a peace deal again and has the necessary references. However, there may be a Trump effect. If Trump ends this war, he will score a very big point for himself. You know it was one of his biggest promises before the election. Nevertheless, Turkey is one of the important countries that can play a facilitating role for a peace agreement.
Steven Sahiounie is a two-time award-winning journalist.
The opinions of Mr. Yucel do not represent Journalist Steven Sahiounie or MideastDiscours
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