Wednesday, 7 February 2024

How did Turkey make a deal with the Nazi Germany during World War II in rumors that sooner or later, they could become the next target of German invasion?

 During World War II, Turkey pursued a policy of neutrality for much of the conflict. However, there were diplomatic maneuvers and strategic considerations that led to negotiations and interactions between Turkey and both the Allies and the Axis powers, including Nazi Germany. While there were rumors and concerns about a potential German invasion of Turkey, in reality, Turkey maintained its neutrality throughout the war.

Here are some key points regarding Turkey's dealings with Nazi Germany during World War II:

1. **Neutrality:** At the outset of the war in 1939, Turkey declared its neutrality and aimed to stay out of the conflict. The government, led by President İsmet İnönü, sought to keep Turkey out of the hostilities and maintain its independence.

2. **Pressure from Both Sides:** Turkey's strategic position, with control over the Bosporus Strait and the Dardanelles, made it a key geopolitical player. Both the Allies and the Axis powers recognized the strategic importance of Turkey, and there were diplomatic efforts to sway Turkey toward their respective alliances.

3. **Angara and Montreux Treaties:** In 1939, Turkey signed the Angara Treaty with France and the United Kingdom, guaranteeing mutual assistance if Turkey were attacked. However, in 1941, Turkey signed the Montreux Convention, which allowed for the remilitarization of the Turkish Straits and gave Turkey more flexibility in its foreign policy.

4. **German-Turkish Friendship Treaty:** In June 1941, shortly before the German invasion of the Soviet Union, Turkey signed the German-Turkish Friendship Treaty with Nazi Germany. This non-aggression pact helped secure Turkey's neutrality and was seen as a way to avoid potential German aggression.

5. **Soviet Threat:** One of the key factors influencing Turkey's decisions during the war was the threat of Soviet expansion. The Soviet Union, which was part of the Allied powers after 1941, had territorial claims on parts of Turkey. This threat influenced Turkey's cautious approach to foreign policy.

6. **Economic Relations:** While maintaining neutrality, Turkey engaged in economic relations with both the Allies and the Axis powers. Economic considerations played a role in Turkey's decision-making.

7. **Diplomacy and Negotiations:** Turkey's leaders, particularly İsmet İnönü, engaged in skillful diplomacy to navigate the complexities of the war. Negotiations with both sides allowed Turkey to maintain its sovereignty and avoid direct involvement in the conflict.

In summary, while there were diplomatic interactions between Turkey and Nazi Germany, Turkey did not become a target of German invasion during World War II. The country managed to maintain its neutrality and avoid direct involvement in the conflict, safeguarding its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

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