No decision on deployment of troops to Ukraine: Turkish Defense Ministry
Turkish Armed Forces personnel attend the distinguished observer day activities of the Winter Exercise-2025, organized by the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) in Kars, Türkiye, on February 05, 2025 (AA Photo)
The Turkish Ministry of National Defense addressed key security issues during a press briefing, responding to questions on counterterrorism efforts, European security, NATO participation, and recent military exercises.
Türkiye denies reports on new military bases in Syria
Turkish Defense Ministry officials refuted claims circulating in Israeli media that Türkiye is establishing three new military bases in Syria.
They also dismissed social media reports alleging that Turkish F-16s were flying over Damascus following Israel’s recent airstrikes on the city.
“Reports from the region that aim to create perception should be approached with caution. These claims are not true. It is essential to verify such reports with our ministry,” the sources stated.
The ministry reaffirmed Türkiye’s priority of ensuring lasting security and stability in Syria, adding that efforts to strengthen Syria’s defense and security capabilities are ongoing in close coordination with the new administration.
No decision on deployment of Turkish troops to Ukraine
Responding to reports that Turkish troops might be deployed to Ukraine under a peacekeeping mission, Defense Ministry sources stated that Türkiye remains committed to a fair and lasting peace, ensuring equal representation of both sides.
“Our stance remains unchanged: a just and lasting peace can only be achieved through an equitable and fair representation of both parties. Türkiye will continue to support all constructive efforts to restore peace in the region, ensure the Black Sea remains a sea of peace, and contribute to Ukraine’s reconstruction,” they said.
While confirming ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the war, the ministry stressed that discussions regarding potential contributions to an undefined peacekeeping mission would be evaluated based on regional stability and mutual agreements among all relevant parties.
Türkiye’s role in European security architecture
Addressing questions about European security, Defense Ministry officials underscored Türkiye’s integral role in the continent’s defense framework.
“As a NATO and OSCE member and a candidate for EU membership, Türkiye is an indispensable part of the European security architecture. With its advanced defense industry, significant role in resolving regional crises, and strong military, European security cannot be ensured without our country,” they stated.
The ministry criticized the continued political barriers preventing Türkiye’s full participation in the EU’s defense initiatives, labeling them a mistake, particularly at a time when European security concerns are escalating.
“Full participation in EU defense efforts is crucial for Europe to become a global security actor,” officials emphasized.
Türkiye participates in Red Flag-2025 air combat exercise
Defense Ministry sources provided updates on Türkiye’s participation in the Red Flag-2025 Joint Air Combat Exercise in the United States.
“From March 10-21, Türkiye is participating in the Red Flag-2025 exercise in the U.S. with five F-16 fighter jets and 73 personnel. This marks our eighth participation in the exercise. Our aircraft and personnel have successfully arrived in the U.S.,” the ministry confirmed.
The Red Flag exercise, initially launched in 1975, is held several times a year in Nevada and Alaska. Türkiye last participated in the drill in 2016.
