Istanbul, May 29, 2025 – The Europe Today: NATO Military Committee Chairman Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone highlighted Türkiye’s pivotal role in the ongoing peace efforts between Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing Ankara’s growing strategic significance within the alliance and beyond.
At a press briefing following the 18th Conference of the Chiefs of Staff of the Balkan Countries, held at the Multinational Joint Warfare Center in Istanbul, Dragone praised Türkiye for its strong and indispensable contributions to NATO’s operations and diplomatic initiatives.
“TÜrkiye is doing a lot for the alliance. It is the 2nd Army of the alliance. And so, we cannot disregard this,” Dragone said, underscoring Türkiye’s importance within NATO’s strategic framework.
Describing Türkiye as a “strong pillar, a strong reference, a strong reliable ally,” Dragone pointed to its operational readiness and active participation in conflict zones, such as Kosovo, where Türkiye is set to assume command of NATO’s KFOR mission in October.
“So you get the sense of how important and how strong Türkiye is for us, for the alliance, and how much the alliance relies on Türkiye,” he added.
Dragone also emphasized Türkiye’s instrumental role in diplomacy, particularly in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “Türkiye will be one of the key actors in the peace process between Russia and Ukraine,” he said, reinforcing the country’s strategic position as a mediator in international affairs.
In addition to its diplomatic efforts, Dragone praised Türkiye’s defense industry, particularly in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). He noted that Turkish-made UAVs are “on top” globally and have demonstrated their effectiveness in combat, both in the air and in emerging applications at sea and underwater.
“Many lives are likely being saved thanks to UAVs — not only among pilots and aviators but also seamen and soldiers,” Dragone explained. He further acknowledged the role of unmanned underwater vehicles in redefining maritime operations, offering cost-effective deterrence and patrol capabilities.
Dragone also urged NATO’s defense industries to shift their focus from profit to performance, emphasizing the importance of contributing to the alliance’s broader defense objectives. “They need to not look anymore for just money, but they need to be part of the defense system,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Dragone reaffirmed NATO’s strength and readiness in addressing evolving global threats. “NATO’s posture is strong — let me say stronger than ever,” he stated, highlighting the alliance’s resilience in the face of challenges, including Russia’s actions and ongoing global terrorism threats.
Türkiye’s growing strategic influence continues to solidify its role as a key partner within NATO, positioning the nation as a central player in both military operations and international diplomacy.
