Turkey hosts NATO summit amid increased geopolitical role and domestic crackdown

Ankara is hosting a NATO summit on Tuesday and Wednesday, attended by leaders of the 32 member states, including U.S. President Donald Trump. International media reports suggest Turkey has evolved into a crucial strategic partner for the alliance due to its second-largest military force, control over Black Sea access, and a rapidly expanding defense industry that exceeded $10 billion in exports in 2025. Conversely, rights groups like Reporters Without Borders have denounced a series of arrests targeting journalists, lawyers, and activists in the days leading up to the summit. Among those detained are Buse Sogutlu of T24 and Ceren Erdogdu of OdaTV, with lawyers stating no clear charges have been filed. Turkish authorities have implemented strict security measures in the capital, including a ban on public protests. While Western analysts highlight Turkey's role as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine, concerns persist regarding the country's domestic political trajectory. These developments reflect a complex balance between Turkey's growing indispensability to NATO and international criticism regarding the suppression of civil liberties.