Where does Trump's affection for Erdoğan come from? He says, 'I can make this guy do whatever I want'

Former US President Donald Trump's statement, "I like Erdoğan, and he likes me," contains a message that draws attention in terms of international relations. Journalist Can Ataklı evaluated the true intention and the behind-the-scenes reality of Trump's words.

HE APPLIED PRESSURE AND GOT WHAT HE WANTED

Ataklı said that with these words, Trump is not actually describing the affection he feels for Erdoğan, but rather the political pressure he exerted on him and the results he achieved. "Trump is actually saying this: 'I made this guy do what I wanted.' And he explains this with examples. He reminds us of the Pastor Brunson incident, for instance. He pressured Turkey and got what he wanted."

"WHATEVER AMERICA SAYS, THAT'S WHAT HAPPENS"

In his assessment, Ataklı noted that while Turkey portrays an image of standing tall in its foreign policy, especially against the US, this is not the case when it comes to implementation:

"Erdoğan frequently says he is against American imperialism. However, when we look at the actions, the situation is different. Can we search for oil in the Eastern Mediterranean? No. Can we operate in the south of Cyprus? No. Can we show a presence in the Aegean? Even Erdoğan himself says that the islands have been occupied but that this will not be permanent. What does this mean? During his own term, it was impossible to go beyond the borders drawn by the US."

"TRUMP'S AFFECTION IS NOT SINCERE, IT IS PRAGMATIC"

Can Ataklı stated that there is no friendship or political closeness behind Trump's "I like Erdoğan" words, adding the following:

"Trump says, 'I like Erdoğan, and he likes me.' But we have never heard such an expression of affection from Erdoğan toward Trump. Especially after that letter full of insults... The real issue in these expressions by Trump is not so much affection for Erdoğan, but the satisfaction of having been able to steer Erdoğan. It is a kind of show of power. Besides, Trump calls everyone 'my friend.' Didn't he even call Assad that at one time?"

"IF AMERICA SAYS 'DON'T GET INVOLVED,' YOU DON'T GET INVOLVED"

Ataklı also drew attention to the de facto influence of the US over Turkey:

"When America says, 'don't get involved there,' Turkey cannot get involved there. It cannot show activity in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Aegean, or Cyprus. This shows why Trump speaks with such self-confidence."