Ankara is at the centre of global diplomacy as Türkiye hosts NATO's annual summit for the first time in 22 years. Regional figures are also expected to attend, including the presidents of Ukraine and Syria, underscoring Ankara’s growing role as a diplomatic bridge between Europe and the Middle East. But with NATO facing renewed pressure from Russia and the fallout of the Iran war, can the alliance
present a united front?

Ahead of the meeting, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed US President Donald Trump with an official ceremony. The two leaders said trade, Iran and Ukraine would top their agenda, along with a possible F-35 deal. Trump praised Türkiye as a key ally while again voicing frustration with other NATO members. Ankara is also expected to showcase its expanding defence industry as countries adapt to a new era of asymmetric warfare shaped by drones, and artificial intelligence. The gathering comes just weeks after the Iran war exposed divisions within the alliance over the Middle East. As host, Türkiye is expected to press for greater unity while promoting diplomacy over confrontation, building on its efforts to mediate conflicts from Ukraine to the wider region.

Guests:
Tudor Onea
Bilkent University Assistant Professor

Gulru Gezer
Former Turkish Ambassador

Sean Michael Cox
Senior Adviser at Global Policy Institute