Bloomberg learned about the discussion in NATO about replacing the United States with Turkey in the alliance

Against the background of deteriorating relations with the United States, NATO is beginning to realize Turkey's importance in the bloc. This was reported by Bloomberg on July 2.

According to the agency, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to demonstrate his country's role as one of the main participants in the association at the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, which will be held on July 7-8. At the same time, it is clarified that two years ago, Erdogan was perceived as a "white crow" in the bloc due to disagreements over Sweden's accession to NATO.

However, now, according to diplomats, his image of "a strong leader who enjoys the respect of US President Donald Trump" may allow Ankara to influence the summit's agenda amid disagreements between European countries and Washington.

In addition, Turkey has strengthened its position as an arms supplier to Europe, which is increasing military spending amid the conflict in Ukraine. According to the newspaper, last year about 56% of Turkish arms exports went to the United States, Europe and other Western allies.

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The Institute for Security Studies of the European Union reported on June 22 that Europe needs to prepare for a scenario in which the United States ceases to play a key role in ensuring collective defense through NATO. It was clarified that the ultimate goal should be an alliance in which the Europeans provide the basis of the system, and the United States no longer "acts as an indispensable support state."

Foreign Policy magazine reported on June 30 that European leaders are praying that there will be no surprises at the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey, where the American administration will be present. It was noted that the structure of relations within NATO has changed, as decisions in the alliance are now made based on pragmatic considerations.