NATO summit in Ankara and bilateral diplomatic developments

The NATO summit is scheduled to take place in Ankara on July 7-8, with the participation of leaders from all 32 member states. U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated he is attending primarily out of respect for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is expected to arrive on July 7 to hold bilateral talks. The agenda includes discussions on regional issues and potential defense cooperation agreements, alongside a concurrent Defense Industry Forum. While a meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Erdogan remains possible, government sources in Athens describe it as unconfirmed, noting that summits often feature informal, spontaneous encounters. Meanwhile, Turkish authorities have implemented extensive security measures, including bans on public gatherings, road closures, and aesthetic urban improvements, which have drawn criticism from opposition parties. Athens maintains a cautious stance, emphasizing the need for Turkey to align with EU foreign policy and avoid threats against member states.