NATO’s response to Erdogan’s departure from the EU

Ahead of the NATO summit in Lithuania starting tomorrow, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg made remarkable remarks on Turkey.

At the two-day NATO summit, Turkey’s objections to Sweden’s membership in the military alliance are at the top of the agenda. As the US and some countries increased pressure on Turkey for Swedish accession, Erdoğan made harsh remarks at the Atatürk airport before traveling to Lithuania.

“I appeal to these countries that have kept Turkey waiting at the gates of the European Union for more than 50 years. But I will also scream in Vilnius. First, clear the way for Turkey in the European Union and let’s prepare the way for Sweden, as we did in Finland.” Stating that he will meet NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Erdoğan said: “We want the promises made to be kept.”

Following these statements, NATO responded to Erdogan. Responding to Erdogan’s question about linking Sweden’s NATO membership to Turkey’s EU membership, Stoltenberg said Ankara supports EU membership, but Sweden already meets the conditions to join NATO.

Stating that it is still possible for Sweden to become a NATO member this week, Stoltenberg said Sweden has met the requirements for membership. “A positive decision on Sweden in Vilnius is still possible,” the NATO secretary general said.