Ankara prepares for NATO summit amid security measures and protests

Ankara is preparing to host a NATO summit on July 7 and 8, which will include the arrival of U.S. President Donald Trump. President Trump stated his attendance is a personal favor to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The schedule includes a visit by Trump to the Anitkabir mausoleum, an official reception at the Presidential Palace, and bilateral talks. Additionally, the ATO Congresium will host a defense industry forum on July 7. Local authorities have implemented severe security restrictions, including the closure of major roads, shops, and a total ban on public demonstrations from June 28 until July 8. Opposition figures, including Tuncer Bakirhan of the DEM party, have criticized these measures, describing the city as an open-air prison. Reports also mention beautification efforts by municipal workers, which critics claim are intended to hide impoverished areas from visiting delegations from 32 countries.