Russian economist opposes Türkiye’s BRICS membership over Crimea dispute

Russian economist Sergey Glazyev, disturbed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s statements that Russia should return Crimea to Ukraine in accordance with international law, has expressed opposition to Türkiye’s membership in BRICS. 

Türkiye’s BRICS membership application 

In early September 2024, Türkiye officially applied for membership in the BRICS group. Analysts view this move as an attempt to enhance Türkiye’s global influence and forge new strategic relationships beyond its Western allies. The BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024 will evaluate Türkiye’s application. 

Russian economist’s article, reaction to Erdogan’s Crimea statements

Shortly after the application announcement, Glazyev, a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and former Russian minister of external economic relations under Russian President Vladimir Putin, published an article titled “Türkiye has no place in BRICS.” Glazyev pointed out that in this period when the world economy is shifting to Southeast Asia, Russia is searching for allies in Asia. However, he described Türkiye and Azerbaijan as ideologically weak. 

Reacting to Erdogan’s statement that Crimea should be returned to Ukraine, Glazyev argued that Erdogan’s remarks are unacceptable and that Türkiye should not be admitted to BRICS unless it changes its stance on Crimea. On Sept. 11, 2024, President Erdogan sent a video message to the fourth Leaders’ Summit of the Crimea Platform held in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Erdogan reiterated his support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence, stating that returning Crimea to Ukraine is a requirement of international law. He said his foreign policy priorities include Crimean Tatar Turk security and well-being. 

I believe that Russia should clearly declare that such attitudes are unacceptable and that Türkiye’s admission to BRICS is inappropriate, and perhaps even consider severing diplomatic relations if Türkiye does not change its stance on Crimea. 

Sergey Glazyev, a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and former Russian Minister of External Economic Relations under Putin

Glazyev’s past views on Türkiye 

Glazyev’s current stance contrasts with his earlier views. On Feb. 11, 2024, he appeared on a Turkish TV channel and praised the relationship between Türkiye and Russia, particularly their energy cooperation. He lauded the development of the Turkish machinery industry and noted Russia’s need for Turkish machinery.

Türkiye is a very good partner. It could help us build a developed economy. Türkiye decides whether or not to join the BRICS. However, I would like to remind you that BRICS’ doors are always open to Türkiye.

Sergey Glazyev, a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and former Russian Minister of External Economic Relations under Putin

In the same program, Glazyev also noted that Russia holds the BRICS presidency for 2024, adding that this period presents a significant opportunity for Türkiye’s BRICS membership.

Putin announced that he dismissed Glazyev in the fall of 2019.