Putin seeks Russian jet escort and avoids US hotels for uncertain Türkiye visit
Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Tayyip Erdogan shake hands during a news conference following their talks in Moscow, Russia March 5, 2020. (Reuters Photo)
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s long-postponed visit to Türkiye remains uncertain, primarily due to Moscow’s intricate demands and security concerns.
Since the start of the Ukraine conflict, Putin has postponed multiple planned visits to Türkiye, citing various reasons including the ongoing war and recent Russian elections. However, the primary obstacle to the visit is Russia’s insistence on special security arrangements.
Middle East Eye (MEE) reports that Putin has requested to fly to Türkiye with an escort of Russian fighter jets. This request appears to stem from concerns over potential threats from Ukraine, which may target aircraft along the flight route. The demand presents a significant challenge, as NATO air-defense systems in Türkiye might interpret the Russian jets as hostile targets. It is unlikely that Türkiyewill disable NATO systems to accommodate this request.
Negotiations between Russian and Turkish officials have tentatively discussed the possibility of a visit in early October. However, the specific request for fighter jet escorts complicates the planning, making it doubtful that the visit will proceed as scheduled. Putin’s last trip to Ankara was in 2014.
The request for fighter jet escorts is highly unusual, according to two former Turkish ambassadors who have previously handled diplomatic visits. One former ambassador remarked, “The Turkish government may send fighter jets to escort foreign heads of states as a gesture, but I cannot recall any visit where the foreign heads of state would like to bring over his or her country’s fighter jets along.”
Additionally, Russian officials have expressed concerns about staying at US-owned hotels in Ankara, specifically the Hilton, Sheraton, and JW Marriott. Moscow perceives these American hotel chains as unsafe for the Russian president. This concern has led to discussions about the possibility of using a government guest house for Putin’s stay, a protocol not commonly observed in recent years.
