Determinants of Turkish-American Relations and Prospects for the Future

Abstract:

This article analyses the fluctuating course of the Turkey-U.S. relationship with a special focus on Barack Hussein Obama’s presidency.

When Obama held office, he aimed at reinventing U.S.’ image and shifting center of gravity from the Middle East to Asia-Pacific. These led U.S. to develop its relations with its allies in the region to provide the course of politics go along with the American geostrategic goals.

Obama suggested a 'model partnership' concept to draw a line between his Administration’s and that of his predecessor George W. Bush. Differences of opinion, however, meant the concept did not go beyond being a surface change. Ultimately, two problems remained unsolved; the FETÖ leader’s ongoing residence in U.S. and American support for YPG/PYD in Syria.