Austin and Michael discuss the complexities surrounding Turkey's potential membership in BRICS, which could complicate its NATO relationships. Turkey's geopolitical positioning grants it significant leverage within NATO. Despite purchase of Russian defense systems, Turkey remains strategically important to NATO due to military contributions.
Michael emphasizes that although Turkey has caused tensions within NATO, its military and economic contributions are too significant to ignore. They highlight Turkey's control over key transportation routes like the Bosphorus Strait as essential for NATO's strategies.
The conversation also touches on the broader context of NATO, including disagreements about Ukraine's desire to join the alliance, which is opposed by some member nations. This reflects the internal complexities within NATO that need to be navigated carefully.
Turkey's potential inclusion in BRICS, aimed at countering Western economic dominance, raises questions about how its obligations to NATO would align with this new affiliation, particularly given its historical ties with Russia.
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