As the tight US election unfolds, many experts believe that the outcome likely won’t lead to significant changes in the cautious relationship between Washington and Ankara. While a new president could bring a different personal touch to the diplomacy, it’s improbable that it will completely reshape the complex and often uneasy alliance between these two NATO allies.
The days when the United States and Turkey saw each other as indispensable partners, particularly in the 1990s, are long gone. After navigating through years of tension and soul-searching, both countries have settled into a more pragmatic relationship. They’re learning to agree where they can, disagree where they must, and find areas where they can still cooperate.
“Today, it seems like both sides have accepted that they’ll agree on some issues, disagree on others, and look for ways to work together,” says Soner Cagaptay from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. Despite their differences, the two nations continue to keep the lines of communication open. This ongoing dialogue highlights their mutual desire to maintain stability in their relationship, even if it isn’t as warm as it once was.
