Erdogan lost in foreign policy maze of his own making

As talk of early elections grows louder, Erdogan needs to steer Turkey out of its international isolation to bolster his weakened position at home.
Antonio Masiello/Getty Images
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attends a press conference at the end of the Rome G20 Summit on Oct. 31, 2021, in Rome, Italy. - Antonio Masiello/Getty Images
semihidiz.jpg
Semih Idiz

Turkey is facing political uncertainty with rising domestic tensions and a spiraling economy. Presidential elections are due to be held by June 2023, but it seems increasingly likely they will take place earlier.

Support for President Recep Erdogan and his Justice and Development Party (AKP) is waning, according to multiple opinion polls. The situation leaves Ankara facing difficult choices in its international affairs.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.

Videos

See more