The Straits – Between Geopolitical Best Card and Bone of Contention in the Turkish-Russian Relations. Kanal Istanbul Projesi

Abstract

The Bosphorus and Dardanelles Straits transformed Turkey into a binder between continents and seas, but this geographical advantage is, at the same time, a geopolitical and geostrategic bone of contention, drawing arguments not only with the neighbouring states of the Black Sea, but also with the European powers, Russia in this case. The past two centuries are a long series of discussions and discordant episodes related to The Straits, especially after Turkey joined NATO and found itself in the position to be impartial toward The West and Russia. The current challenge is to find a neutral path, independent, and in the same time stronger, but will it be a satisfactory solution for all the involved actors and it will be this one a peaceful one?