The Turkish authorities have assured Thursday that they do not plan to join the sanctions imposed by third countries against Russia but that »they will be forced» to do so if it is the UN that approves them.
Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has pointed out that Turkey is »one of the five most powerful NATO members» and therefore »must keep the interests as a priority».
If the UN imposes sanctions, we will be forced to take measures, but if I comply with these or those sanctions imposed by this or that state, then I will not take into account my own interests as a country,» he said, according to information reported by the TRT channel.
Later, Cavusoglu said that Anakara is assessing the possibility of introducing sanctions and said that the country is showing a position. »We are complying with the Montreux Convention to the last consequences. We do not recognize the annexation of Crimea, we are on the side of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and we call this war a war,» he pointed out.
However, he has stressed that »they will not shatter this balance to favor third parties». Turkey has not officially joined the EU in imposing sanctions against Russia for the invasion of Ukraine. It is thus trying to maintain a more neutral stance, in line with the mediation it has exercised so far.
The international community is putting increased pressure on the country in an attempt to convince Ankara to impose restrictions on Russian trade and economy.
Source: (EUROPA PRESS)
