In a move that further suggests a potential shift in the power balance between Russia and Turkey, President Vladimir Putin of Russia and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey recently met in Moscow to discuss the specifics of a
grain deal.
The bilateral agreement, which was signed during the recent visit, is believed to appease both leaders and solidify an ever-growing relationship between the two nations. The agreement is expected to specifically bolster the agricultural sector of both countries by equipping Russia to export grain and other agricultural commodities to Turkey more consistently and cost-effectively.
The meeting also sparked many conversations about a possible realignment of power dynamics in the region. Erdogan and Putin have displayed a number of cooperative initiatives in past years and this agreement serves to further an ever-strengthening friendship between the two countries.
This is particularly interesting considering that Turkey was once one of the leading players in the NATO Alliance, which is considered to be a check on Russia’s power in the region. However, considering current political trends, it appears that Turkey could potentially have a more allied relationship with Russia in the near future.
Additionally, the specifics of the grain deal have placed additional pressure on the United States, which is struggling to find ways to keep Russian dominance in check in the region. The deal between the two countries suggests that the traditional power balance between Russia and the West may be shifting, as Russia appears to be making increasingly strong inroads into the global grain markets.
Overall, the recent meeting between Putin and Erdogan, coupled with the grain deal that resulted from it, suggest a shift within the middle east that could end up playing a major role in the geopolitical landscape for years to come. Keeping an eye on the increasing cooperation between Russia and Turkey is recommended for those interested in furthering mutual understanding between the two nations.