Fiery confrontation between the US and Turkey

America did not hold back its feelings on Turkey’s change of foreign policy and behaviour at Tuesday’s NATO Foreign Affairs Ministers meeting. 

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo blasted Turkey over its provocative behaviour in the East Med and for purchasing the Russian anti-missile system S-400, actions which he said are contrary to the principles and operation of NATO and ultimately undermine its cohesion.

Pompeo referred to the provocative actions of Turkey in the Eastern Mediterranean, Libya, Syria, Nagorno-Karabakh and to Turkey’s purchase of the Russian anti-missile system S-400 which he described as “a gift to Russia” by a NATO alliance member.

He also said that the military "deconfliction mechanism" agreed between Athens and Ankara in October is not working because of Turkey.

During the meeting, Greek Foreign Affairs Minister Nikos Dendias accused Turkey of being the main disruptor in the region and demanding that it respect international law.

Dendias added that all NATO allies must demonstrate in practice their commitment to key NATO principles, such as democracy, respect for human rights, and respect for the rule of law. 

In addition, he said, the need becomes even more urgent at a time when Turkey is openly violating international law, threatening regional stability and transatlantic cohesion in the Eastern Mediterranean, Libya and the Caucasus.