The optimism of the post-Cold War period is almost over. Neither globalization nor the elimination of the Iron Curtain brought the expected results.

A prolonged war in Ukraine would have a devastating impact on European security and the global economy. That is why we should expect diplomacy to gain momentum

Russia made certain maximalist demands under the pretext of national security. Judging by the way that the U.S. and the EU managed the crisis, there was no attempt to stop Moscow’s imminent attack either.

Unless all parties from Brussels to the Kremlin give realistic diplomacy a chance, the escalating military confrontation will never stop

There are three main reasons behind Berlin's passive approach to the Ukraine tensions. Among them, energy comes first

This analysis provides a review of Turkey’s relations with Ukraine and discusses foreign policy options available to Turkey in case of invasion of Ukrainian territory by Russia.

One way or the way, all Ankara wants is a peaceful solution to the escalating standoff in Ukraine

If the Ukraine crisis enters a new chapter, Erdoğan’s most recent visit to Ukraine, together with Putin’s upcoming trip to Turkey, could initiate a process of de-escalation. Indeed, the Russian leader could convey a new message to the Western alliance by agreeing to mediation by Turkey, a NATO ally.

Western countries fail to stay united in the face of Russian power in the ongoing Ukrainian crisis

In the near future, Turkish President Erdoğan's diplomatic contribution to resolve the Ukraine row will be understood in a much clearer way

Turkey, which did not recognize the annexation of Crimea, supports Ukraine’s territorial integrity. At the same time, it wants Russia and Ukraine – countries, with which it has cordial relations – to resolve the Donbass crisis through negotiations. Again, Russia could find it more suitable to work with Turkey in the Black Sea, as it already does in the Caucasus.

The country is wedged between an aggressive power and idle disunity, suffering from a lack of independence

As the tug of war over Ukraine deepens, the Russian leader has shifted into high gear against the Western alliance

On its path to strengthen its independence, neither Russian nor Western influence should dominate Ukraine

In the light of today's cumulative security challenges, Ankara is likely to give normalization processes with its counterparts more chance

Considering the Russian president's strategies, the question is whether there can be a third option somewhere between war and reconciliation