Von Der Leyen’s Türkiye Remark Draws EU Backlash and Rapid Clarification

Overview

• Speaking in Hamburg at a Die Zeit event, Ursula von der Leyen said the EU must complete the continent so it does not fall under Russian, Turkish or Chinese influence.
• The European Commission later clarified that Türkiye is an unquestionably important partner and told Anadolu Agency the remark was meant to note Ankara’s geopolitical clout, size and ambition.
• Charles Michel rebuked the line on X, describing Turkey as a core NATO ally, a key migration partner, an energy corridor and a serious regional power, in a post that revived his feud with von der Leyen.
• Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides criticized Michel’s defense, pointing to Turkey’s 1974 invasion and the continued occupation of part of Cyprus.
• Turkish officials signaled there would be no formal condemnation after Brussels’ clarification, reflecting a choice to avoid a new rift as Ankara seeks closer trade and security cooperation with the EU.