Erdogan Urges Bold U.S. Action for Peace
Rio de Janeiro, The Gulf Observer: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his hopes that the upcoming U.S. administration under President-elect Donald Trump would take “bolder, more prudent, and more supportive steps on the path to peace.” Speaking at a news conference during the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Erdogan reiterated his desire for a global commitment to peace, emphasizing that such actions are critical to resolving ongoing international conflicts.
“I hope and wish that the U.S. administration takes bolder, more prudent, and more supportive steps on the path to peace,” Erdogan said. He also criticized the United Nations Security Council, calling it “an elitist structure that prioritizes the interests of its five permanent members over the rights of all 193 member countries.”
Erdogan also addressed the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning “Israel’s state terrorism,” which he said is exacerbated by Western support. “The humanitarian cost grows in the region with Western support,” Erdogan stated, warning that history would not forgive those who remain silent on Israel’s actions in Palestine. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s stance, calling for more countries to recognize Palestinian statehood, describing it as “especially vital at this time.”
Türkiye, Erdogan emphasized, played a key role in contributing to “strong statements” on Gaza in the G20 summit declaration, underscoring the country’s unwavering support for the people of Gaza amidst ongoing Israeli attacks. “Even if we stand alone, as Türkiye, we will continue to stand by the oppressed,” he said.
Turning to security concerns, Erdogan called on NATO to review Russia’s recent revisions to its nuclear doctrine, which could see the use of nuclear weapons in response to a conventional missile attack supported by a nuclear power. The new doctrine follows the decision by U.S. President Joe Biden to allow Ukraine to use U.S.-provided long-range missiles against targets deep within Russia.
“We cannot proclaim that there is a positive aspect to a war in which nuclear weapons are utilized,” Erdogan said. “NATO officials should deliberate on this step taken by Russia and review it.” He further emphasized the urgency of a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, a conflict that has now been ongoing for 1,000 days since Russia’s invasion in 2022. “I hope we can quickly achieve a lasting ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, securing the peace the world is waiting for,” he added.
President Erdogan’s statements at the G20 summit reflect Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to address regional and global challenges, including peace in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as the pursuit of a more equitable international order.
