Strictly Pragmatism?: Prospects for a Russian-Turkish Partnership

This article examines prospects for Russian-Turkish cooperation in a number of areas, including energy, security, and in Syria. It argues that possibilities for a Russian-Turkish partnership have significantly expanded since 2016, while at the same time Turkey’s relations with the West have deteriorated. It suggests that both Russia and Turkey are revisionist states, seeking changes to the existing global order. While some aspects of their ties are clearly pragmatic, this article also probes how similar developments in their domestic political systems might also advance their relationship. While noting that tensions remain and much remains unsettled, especially with respect to Syria, it suggests that there is far greater possibility for a Russian-Turkish partnership than in the recent past.