Greece's View on Erdogan's Neo-Ottoman Ambitions: A Skeptical Perspective

In recent years, the relationship between Greece and Turkey has been marked by profound distrust, largely stemming from the former's view of Erdogan's neo-Ottoman ambitions. Greeks have long suspected that there are serious geopolitical and ideological dimensions to these ambitions that extend far beyond mere territorial disputes. This article explores the Greek perspective on these issues, highlighting the perceived long-term threat to Europe and the historical context that informs Greek apprehensions.

Understanding Greek Skepticism

The primary concern for Greeks lies in the long-term neo-Ottoman ambitions of the Turkish government, particularly under President Erdogan. This suspicion is not unfounded, considering the historical context of the Ottoman Empire and its impact on the region. Many Greeks believe that Turkey under Erdogan's leadership is not merely reviving its past glory through territorial expansion but aiming to re-establish significant political, economic, cultural, and military influence, even without direct territorial control.

The Historical Context

The Ottoman Empire, with its vast reach and influence, left a lasting legacy that is still felt today. Greece, itself a descendant of the Byzantine Empire, shares a complex history with the Ottoman Empire, characterized by both cooperation and conflict. This historical memory forms the backdrop against which Greeks view contemporary Turkey. For Greeks, the renewed interest in the Ottoman past by the Turkish government is not merely academic; it is seen as a revival of an ideology that seeks to expand power and influence.

Current-Day Concerns: Political and Military Relations

From a political standpoint, Greeks are deeply concerned about the idea of a neo-Ottoman revival. They maintain that Turkey, under Erdogan's leadership, is attempting to chip away at European values and expand its influence in the region. Greece believes that this is particularly dangerous in a context where the European Union is seeking to maintain stability and sovereignty. The perceived lack of support from the EU in standing up to Turkey's actions is a source of frustration and concern for Greek policymakers.

Historical Incidents and Their Impact

The historical pattern of incidents in which Greece and Turkey have clashed, such as the 1955 Istanbul pogrom and the 1974 Cyprus crisis, further reinforce Greek suspicions. The involvement of British intelligence and Turkish ultra-nationalist groups in these events has led to a deep-seated belief among many Greeks that Turkey is not merely acting out of economic or military interests but is also driven by a broader ideological agenda. This agenda is seen as a threat to the stability and unity of Europe.

The Role of the EU and America

Another significant factor in Greek apprehensions is the perceived backing of Turkey by both the European Union and the United States. The Greek view is that these major global players are often reluctant to speak out against Turkey's actions, possibly due to economic benefits or strategic interests. Greece argues that this silence is nothing but an enabler of Turkey's neo-Ottoman ambitions. This belief is buttressed by the fact that the EU remains Turkey's largest trading partner, and the United States has also shown a certain level of support in various instances.

Conclusion: The Reality of the Threat

Essentially, the Greek perspective on Erdogan's neo-Ottoman ambitions is grounded in a deep-seated fear of a return to the nationalist and expansionist policies of the Ottoman Empire. The Greek government and its people see this not merely as a threat to their sovereignty but as a potential destabilizing force in the broader European and global context. While this perspective may be viewed as partisan, it is rooted in historical and contemporary realities that cannot be easily dismissed.

It is crucial for all parties involved to engage in open dialogue and cooperation to ensure that the region remains stable and harmonious. The Greek concerns should not be ignored, as they reflect a genuine and longstanding fear of a return to the shadow of the Ottoman Empire. Only through a sustained and transparent diplomatic effort can the true nature of these ambitions be understood and addressed.