Turkey and Russia's Partnership Unravels Amid Ukraine Conflict

• •Turkey is increasingly supporting Ukraine, challenging Russian influence in the region.
• •The partnership between Turkey and Russia, once mutually beneficial, is now in decline.
• •Erdogan's refusal to impose sanctions on Russia has allowed Turkey to gain leverage.

The partnership between Turkey and Russia, formed during the Syrian war, is deteriorating as Turkey supports Ukraine against Russian influence. Historically, both nations accommodated each other's interests in Syria, but the war in Ukraine has shifted the balance. Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Turkey has emerged as a dominant player in the region, while Russia struggles to maintain its influence. Erdogan's refusal to join Western sanctions against Russia has allowed Turkey to become a hub for Russian trade and energy. However, the changing dynamics have left Russia negotiating with a Syrian government it previously bombed, further complicating its position. This shift marks a significant change in regional power relations.