Recap radio

Journalist and author Suzy Hansen joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss her newly-released book, From Life Itself: Turkey, Istanbul, and a Neighborhood in the Age of Erdoğan.It’s a brutally honest look at Turkey under Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan told through the people and street life of the Karagümrük, a rapidly changing neighborhood in Istanbul’s historic Fatih district.This podcast covers migration to Istanbul over many decades, from the rural-to-urban migration of the past till the modern relocation of Syrian refugees over the last 15 years. Also covered are Hansen’s takeaways after years as a foreign correspondent based in Turkey, tips for young journalists and a peek at her new projects, like Equator Magazine. Referenced in this talk:Submit a question with this formFrom Life Itself: Turkey, Istanbul, and a Neighborhood in the Age of Erdoğan (Macmillan)The Erdogan Loyalists and the Syrian Refugees (NYTimes - gift article)Notes on a Foreign Country: An American Abroad in a Post-American World (Macmillan)Equator Magazine (Equator)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Nebahat Tanrıverdi Yaşar, visiting fellow at the Centre for Applied Turkey Studies at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey-Somalia relations.This podcast covers Ankara’s growing military and commercial interests in the Horn of Africa, including the TURKSOM military base in Somalia and offshore energy drilling activities there, which began earlier this month.Also discussed are the implications of Turkey’s presence in the Horn of Africa amid regional competition between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Additionally, we touch on how the Iran war is impacting dynamics and how regional actors view Turkey’s rapid rise as a leading weapons provider in Africa.Referenced in this talk:Submit a question with this formTurkey launches first overseas deep-sea drilling mission in Somalia (Reuters)TURKSOM military base trains Somali forces since 2017 (DS)Unpacking Turkey’s Security Footprint in Africa (SWP)Turkey’s quest for direction in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea (FT)Turkey’s Drone Industry at a Strategic Crossroads (WOTR)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Alan Makovsky, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Ankara’s pivot to diplomacy and US-Turkey relations.This podcast covers Turkey’s growing efforts to mediate conflicts and host diplomatic meetings like this weekend’s Antalya Diplomacy Forum and the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara.Also discussed are recent comments by US Ambassador to Turkey Thomas Barrack on democracy in the Middle East and on a possible resolution to the S-400 sanctions on Turkey as well as European security and opportunities for Turkey’s defense industry.Referenced in this talk:Submit a question with this formIn Turkey, Middle Powers Ponder Diplomacy With a Rogue U.S. (NY Times)US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack Speaks at Antalya Diplomacy Forum (YouTube)Envoy expects U.S.-Turkey to ‘soon’ solve issue of sanctions over S-400 defences (Reuters)‘Turkey: Managing an unfriendly ally’ by Alan Makovsky (Brookings)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

László Szerencsés, a postdoctoral researcher at Stockholm University’s Institute for Turkish Studies (SUITS), joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the Hungary election results, what they mean and their implications for Turkey-Hungary ties.This podcast begins with a deep dive into Hungarian politics, detailing the fall of Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán and the rise of opposition leader Péter Magyar, before exploring possible lessons for Turkey’s opposition.Also covered are expectations for the new government’s foreign policy and continued dependency on Russian gas, which arrives to Hungary from Turkey through the TurkStream pipeline—a key pillar of the Ankara-Budapest bilateral relationship. Note: This talk was recorded at 1100 Turkey time on Tuesday, April 14.Referenced in this talk:Submit a question with this formPéter Magyar maps out grand bargain to reset Hungary’s ties with Brussels (Politico)Unpacking Turkey-Hungary relations with László Szerencsés (Turkey recap)The Turkish Energy Hub and the Hungary Connection: Challenging EU Gas Diversification Efforts (SUITS)President Erdogan gifts Togg to Hungarian Prime Minister Orban (YouTube)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Howard Eissenstat, Laurentian associate professor at St. Lawrence University and non-resident scholar at Stockholm University's Institute of Turkish Studies, joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey-Israel relations.The podcast outlines growing concerns about a looming regional competition between the two states, past and present bilateral dynamics and how the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran is shifting power balances and perceptions in the region. Also covered are Israeli threat perceptions, Turkish contingency planning and the role of NATO allies in mitigating escalation risks on the road ahead.Note: This talk was recorded at 1600 Turkey time on Monday, April 6, before reports of an armed attack on the Israeli Consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday, April 7.Referenced in this talk:Submit a question with this formThe Next Big Middle East Conflict? The Turkish-Israeli Rivalry (SUITS)‘The New Iran’: Bennett Warns of Emerging Axis at Conference of Presidents (Media Line)PM Netanyahu’s remarks at the start of today’s Government meeting (Gov.Il)What Ankara sees in Riyadh — and why it still needs Abu Dhabi (MEI)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Sinan Ülgen, a former Turkish diplomat and director of EDAM, an Istanbul-based think tank, and a senior fellow at Carnegie Europe, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the Iran war as viewed from Turkey.The talk outlines Turkish interests and concerns regarding the Iran war, including current and future impacts on Turkey’s economy — and what those could mean for Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s prospects in the next election cycle.Additionally, Ülgen discusses Ankara’s efforts to deescalate the conflict through regional coordination with Pakistan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, as highlighted by a meeting between those countries in Islamabad Sunday, March 29.Note: This talk was recorded at 1700 Turkey time on Monday, March 30.Referenced in this talk:Submit a question with this formWhat Turkey Wants in Iran (Project Syndicate)NATO Intercepts Fourth Iranian Missile Targeting Turkey (Bloomberg)Pakistan hosts regional powers for Iran talks, with focus on Hormuz proposals (Reuters)Rubio tells allies Iran war will continue 2-4 more weeks (Axios)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Happy birthday to Recap radio! To mark our first year of podcasting, Turkey recap editors Emily Rice Johnson and Diego Cupolo opened our mail bag and responded to a wide range of listener questions.Covered in this episode are election forecasts, candidacy prospects for Hakan Fidan, Bilal Erdoğan and Mansur Yavaş as well as the implications of the Iran war and ongoing PKK peace process for Turkey.We also discuss Turkey recap-specific questions about freedom of speech, journalism under pressure how to write puns on the run — which is a pun about a nun movie that we do not recommend.Your questions are always welcome. Email us at [email protected] or fill out the anonymous Google form below. Referenced in this talk:Submit a question with this formIn Turkey, is Bilal Erdogan preparing to replace his father? (Al-Monitor)What Turkey’s Election Observers Saw (The Atlantic)Ankara Mayor Yavaş says will consider presidential candidacy ‘if there is demand’ (Duvar)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Lahib Higel, interim deputy director for the Middle East and North Africa program at the International Crisis Group, joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the Iran war.Higel recently co-authored a report on Turkey-Iraq rapprochement titled “Strengthening Iraq-Türkiye Ties amid Regional Tensions.” In this podcast, she juxtaposes the main trend lines from the report against the ongoing regional conflict, highlighting areas to watch in the coming weeks and months.Also covered are discussions about the possible reopening of the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline to export Iraqi oil through Turkey—a move that would circumvent the Strait of Hormuz.Additionally, the pair take deep dives into Iran-Turkey power competition in Iraq, the prospects of a Kurdish ground incursion into Iran and how the war might impact the Turkey-PKK peace process.Referenced in this talk:Submit a question for our Q&A with this formA Sprawling Middle East War Explodes (Crisis Group)Rivals within: How Iran and Turkey compete inside Iraq’s fractured politics (Chatham House)Iraq plans pipeline revamp for direct Kirkuk oil exports to Turkey, minister says (Reuters)How would a Kurdish offensive change the war in Iran? (Atlantic Council)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Today’s guest is Ezgi Başaran, a political scientist and author of the books Frontline Turkey: The Conflict at the Heart of the Middle East and The New Spirit of Islamism: Interactions Between the AKP, Ennahda and the Muslim Brotherhood. She is also the author of the weekly Substack called Angle, Anchor, and Voice.Together with Diego Cupolo, editor-in-chief at Turkey recap, Ezgi discussed US proposals to arm Kurdish militias against the Iranian regime and the potential implications for both Turkey and the PKK peace talks.Also covered are updates on the Syria transition government and its integration process with the Kurdish-led SDF.Referenced in this talk:Submit a question for our Q&A with this formVague and contradictory Trump says Iran war ‘won’, but not ‘won enough’ (Guardian)Israel backing Iranian Kurdish plans to seize Iran border areas, sources say (Reuters)Integration or conflict in northeastern Syria? Ten key points to consider (MEI)Syria’s Kurds caution Iran’s Kurds against aligning with US against Tehran (Reuters)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Two days after the US and Israel launched new airstrikes on Iran, Hürcan Aslı Aksoy, a senior fellow at the Centre for Applied Turkey Studies at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, discussed what this means for Ankara with Diego Cupolo, editor-in-chief at Turkey recap.Aksoy is the author of a recent report on Israel-Turkey regional competition and, after laying out the implications of war in Iran for both nations, she detailed its potential impacts on Israel-Turkey power dynamics across the region.Covered in this podcast are the competing interests and escalation risks between Turkey and Israel in Syria, the Eastern Mediterranean, the Horn of Africa and beyond.Referenced in this talk:US-Israeli strikes kill Khamenei and Iranian retaliation shakes Gulf (Reuters)Türkei–Israel: Riskante Eskalation in einer fragmentierten Regionalordnung (SWP)Israel’s actions affecting SDF–Damascus integration talks: FM Fidan (DS)New alignments and old rivalries are heating up the Eastern Mediterranean (WPR)Israel becomes first country to recognize Somaliland (AJ)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Our guest today is Amy Austin Holmes, a professor at Texas A&M University's Bush School of Government and Public Service in Washington DC, and author of the book, “Statelet of Survivors: The Making of a Semi-Autonomous Region in Northeast Syria.”Together with Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo, she outlined developments before and after Damascus and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) reached a ceasefire deal on Jan. 30 to integrate their forces.Also covered are the security concerns regarding Islamic State-affiliated detainees that escaped prison camps during and after the January offensive as well as the changing US military role in Syria and also women’s changing role in the Syria transition.Referenced in this talk:Syria, Kurdish-led SDF reach integration deal after weeks of clashes (AFP)Syria’s New Order: Centralization by External Consent (Arab Center)US Intelligence Says at Least 15,000 at Large After ISIS Detention Camp Collapses in Syria (WSJ)Disarmament Without Safeguards Is a Death Sentence for Syria’s Minorities (Defense Post)Introduction to Leahy Vetting Policy (US State Dept)Syria’s Minorities Need American Help — by Sam Brownback (WSJ)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Ioannis Grigoriadis, an associate professor of political science at Bilkent University and head of the Turkey program at the Hellenic Foundation of European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP), joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey-Greece relations.On Feb. 11, Turkish Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan hosted Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Ankara, where the pair signed various cooperation and trade agreements while voicing interest in resolving territorial disputes that have plagued ties for decades.This podcast covers the meeting and its implications for EU security as the bloc mulls closer defense cooperation with Turkish defense companies to bolster security amid the Russia-Ukraine war. We also touch on the Cyprus issue towards the end.Referenced in this talk:Turkish, Greek leaders voice desire to resolve issues after talks (Reuters)Türkiye, Greece sign wide-ranging cooperation agreements (AA)Israel will aid Greece in countering military drone swarms (AP)Disputes with EU states complicate Turkey’s role in defense loan program (Tr)Landslide win for pro-EU Turkish Cypriot candidate raises hopes for peace (Guardian)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

The European Parliament’s rapporteur on Turkey, Nacho Sánchez Amor, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Ankara’s stalled EU accession process and recent developments in the region.Amor shares his views on humanitarian needs in northern Syria following clashes between the Syrian army and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). He also covers migration coordination between European states and Turkey along with defense partnerships and security concerns regarding the Russia-Ukraine war.Towards the end, Amor addresses roadblocks posed by Turkey, Greece and Republic of Cyprus relations as well as opportunities for greater cooperation in light of the current Cypriot Council of the EU presidency and recent North Cyprus election victory of Tufan Erhürman, who campaigned on reviving stalled UN-brokered talks.Referenced in this talk:Amor Nuanced Approach (Turkey recap)Nacho Sánchez Amor visits Osman Kavala in prison (Bianet)EU’s Türkiye Rapporteur Amor: Türkiye has fallen to ‘an unprecedented low’ in democratic standards (AnkaHaber)Türkiye Report 2025 (European Commission)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Bilge Yeşil, a professor of media culture at the College of Staten Island, City University of New York and an affiliate faculty of Middle Eastern Studies at the CUNY Graduate Center, joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss media and communication strategies in Turkey.Yeşil lays out how Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s administration presents itself as a benevolent global actor and “voice of the voiceless” that pushes back on Western hypocrisy through a network of state-funded media institutions and pro-government news channels.The talk deconstructs the way Ankara seeks to frame narratives with the use of “strategic obfuscation”, which presents Erdoğan’s administration in a positive light for domestic and global audiences. Also included are leadership changes at the Directorate of Communications, new digital media trends and how both impact government communication strategies.Referenced in this talk:Talking Back to the West: How Turkey Uses Counter-Hegemony to Reshape the Global Communication Order (University of Illinois)Turkey enters the global media stage with TRT World (TRT World)Türkiye leads Muslim nations in addressing Islamophobia (TRT World)Fahrettin Altun sacked as Türkiye’s comms director in major overhaul (Türkiye Today)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Henri J. Barkey, adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the SDF’s territorial losses this weekend and the possible implications for Turkey’s PKK peace talks.The podcast covers security concerns for the US and Israel, the potential fate of Islamic State prisoners in Syria plus future prospects for the Kurdish rights movement, both armed and unarmed.Barkey is also the author of the book, Turkey’s Kurdish Question, and the Bernard L. and Bertha F. Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University.Referenced in this talk:Syrian Government and Kurdish-Led Force Agree to Merge After Clashes (NYT - gift)Terms of the Ceasefire and Integration Agreement between Syria and SDF (SANA)Syria tightens grip after Kurdish pullback, says IS prisoners escape (Reuters)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Author and journalist Kaya Genç joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to talk about what it means to report and write about Turkey in 2026 amid the latest wave of repression on government opponents, cultural figures and free speech, in general.The discussion covers censorship and the ethical quandaries reporters must navigate to perform their jobs. Genç also reflects on the responsibility of intellectuals in periods of democratic backsliding and what drives him to continue documenting the people and spaces that exist despite it all.Genç has been a professional journalist for about 20 years. His recent books include Şehir and The Lion and the Nightingale: A Journey Through Modern Turkey.Referenced in this talk:The Turkish government’s grip on journalism is tightening (Index on Censorship)Under the Shadow: Rage and Revolution in Modern Turkey (Bloomsbury)Peace be the promise (Eurozine)The people who clean up your TikTok feed are starting to fight back (Rest of World)Istanbul Biennial ends early following curator departure (The Art Newspaper)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

To kick off the new year, Özgür Ünlühisarcıklı, the US German Marshall Fund’s managing director of south and wider Europe as well as regional director for Turkey, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey’s foreign policy in 2026.The talk starts with Turkey-Venezuela relations in the aftermath of the US capture of Venezuelan Pres. Nicolás Maduro, and then moves counterclockwise around the globe, covering Ankara’s interests in North Africa, the Middle East, Eurasia, Europe and the US.Throughout, Turkish concerns and objectives are outlined in multiple conflicts, regions and nations, including Libya, the Israel-Gaza war, Somalia, Syria, Iraq, Iran, the Caucasus, the Ukraine-Russia war and more.Referenced in this talk:Turkey’s policy towards Libya: a year of major shifts (OSW)Pro-Palestine march draws over half a million people to Istanbul’s Galata Bridge on New Year’s Day (AA)One step forward, one step back – a year of the Turkish–Kurdish peace process (OSW)The Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Process and the Role of Turkey (SUITS)US envoy hopes F-35 talks with Türkiye yield ‘breakthrough’ in coming months (AA)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Daria Isachenko, an associate at the Centre for Applied Turkey Studies in the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Ankara’s growing political and commercial ties with Central Asia.The talk covers initial outreach efforts in the 1990s, in which Turkey was seen as a “door opener” for Europe to regional actors, such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.Also discussed is Eurasian energy politics amid the Russia-Urkaine war, the purpose of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and the Middle Corridor, which relies on a planned transit connection through Armenia and Azerbaijan, known as the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, or the Zangezur corridor.Also referenced in this talk:Turkey’s Turns to Central Asia: Learning by Doing (CATS Network)First EU-Central Asia summit, 4 April 2025 (Consilium)EU signs deal with Azerbaijan to double gas imports by 2027 (Reuters)Understanding Central Asia’s Position on Northern Cyprus: Between Principles, Pressures, and Pragmatism (Hague Research)The Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Process and the Role of Turkey (SUITS)UN marks first World Turkic Language Family Day (UN News)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Karolina Wanda Olszowska, president and co-founder of the Institute for Turkey Studies, and Karol Wasilewski, head of the Turkey, Caucasus and Central Asia Department at the Centre for Eastern Studies (OSW), joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to outline Russian disinformation strategies in Turkish media.The talk comes as EU leaders meet to discuss the future of the Ukraine-Russia war and focuses on coordinated efforts to spread pro-Russian talking points in Turkey and beyond.We discussed traditional and online media strategies intended to heighten anti-Western sentiments in Turkey, especially in Sputnik Türkiye. We also cover efforts to disseminate anti-Poland narratives in attempt to discredit Warsaw’s stance on the Ukraine war in Turkey and, again, beyond.Also referenced in this talk:EU starts crucial week with Zelenskyy talks and bid to save €210B loan (Politico)Russian Disinformation in Turkey (Disinfoinmenat)‘Unprecedented’ Violation and ‘Alleged’ Evidence: An Analysis of Narrative Lines in Türkiye Following the Drone Attack on Poland (Disinfoinmenat)U.K. Spy Chief Warns of Acute Russia Threat: The ‘Frontline is Everywhere’ (NYT)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

László Szerencsés, a postdoctoral researcher at the Stockholm University Institute for Turkish Studies (SUITS), joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to review the state of Turkey-Hungary ties.The conversation comes after Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán met with Turkish Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Istanbul Monday, Dec. 8. We cover the basis of bilateral ties, from pragmatic energy connectivity to civilizational rhetoric on shared Turkic heritage.Additionally, we discussed Turkey and Hungary’s role in both NATO and the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), as well as future prospects for the bilateral cooperation as Hungary heads into 2026 elections.Also referenced in this talk:Turkey to guarantee flow of Russian gas to Hungary, Orban says (Reuters)Viktor Orbán begins ‘anti-war roadshow’ as Hungary gears up for 2026 elections (Guardian)The Turkish Energy Hub and the Hungary Connection: Challenging EU Gas Diversification Efforts (SUITS)Hungary’s Opening Toward Turkey: from Economic Diversification to Political Partnership (IPC)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Can Selçuki, an economist and director of Research Istanbul, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey’s economic standing after more than two years of reforms under Finance Min. Mehmet Şimşek.Selçuki also outlined Turkey’s trade relations with European and Asian nations, its competitive advantages against other middle-income nations and the challenges posed by its education system.Other topics covered include inflation projections and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) review this month of Turkey’s oversight efforts to prevent money laundering and the funding of terrorist activities.Also referenced in this talk:Türkiye Raporu’s websiteThe World Bank’s Turkey overviewThe latest Lahmacun Index (Susam Bülten)Crime watchdog FATF to visit Turkey after ‘grey list’ exit, sources say (Reuters)Strategic Connectivity in A Contested Era: A Next Generation UK-Turkey Free Trade Agreement (EDAM)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

James Jeffrey, former US ambassador to Turkey, Iraq, Albania and former US special representative for Syria engagement, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Syrian Pres. Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit to Washington on Monday, Nov. 10.Jeffrey reviewed US policy in Syria, including a potential US military presence in Damascus and how Washington views the integration of SDF forces with the central Syrian government.Other topics covered include international sanctions, post-war reconstruction efforts and US efforts to contain Iranian and Russian influence in Syria along with remnants of the Islamic State.Also referenced in this talk:Trump hosts Syria’s Sharaa at White House, US renews temporary waiver of tough sanctions (Reuters)US military to establish presence at Damascus airbase, sources say (Reuters)Syria to join US-led coalition to defeat IS group after Trump meeting (BBC)Ankara presented its views, positions on Syria at talks in US: Turkish foreign minister (AA)Sharaa Goes to Washington (Washington Institute)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Sinem Adar, an associate at the Center for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS Network) in the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP), joined Turkey recap’s Diego Cupolo to discuss the Turkey-PKK peace process.Adar outlined recent steps taken by Kurdish militants to disarm and withdraw from Turkey as members of the parliamentary peace commission consider a meeting with PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan. Other topics covered include perceived divergences in the AKP-MHP alliance, the CHP’s stance as well as developments in Syria and Israel that could impact the peace talks in Turkey.Also referenced in this talk:Turkey’s Erdogan heralds “new phase” in PKK peace process (Reuters)Turkey may finally release Kurdish leader Demirtaş after nine years in prison (Bianet)SDF to join Syrian army as three distinct units: Commander (Rudaw)Can Turkey Make Multicultural Authoritarianism Work? (Foreign Policy)For more, follow Sinem Adar on X and BlueskyOther ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Fiona Mullen, director of Sapienta Economics, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo, to discuss the elections in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and what they mean for Cyprus, Turkey and the eastern Mediterranean.Mullen broke down the dynamics that led to a landslide victory for the new, pro-EU TRNC Pres. Tufan Erhürman over the Ankara-backed incumbent Ersin Tatar. She also weighed in on what this means for reunification talks, which Erhürman supports.Other topics covered include US-Republic of Cyprus (RoC) relations, as well as Israel-RoC relations, offshore gas in the eastern Mediterranean and the economic factors behind the election results.Also referenced in this talk:Turkish Cypriots elect moderate leader in crucial policy switch (Politico)Evidence based analysis of Turkish Cypriot elections (Charis Psaltis)Turkish Cypriots Go to the Polls. Will It Matter? (Foreign Policy)Israeli man’s sentence over illegal development in Cyprus’ breakaway north sends a stark warning (AP)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Joining Recap radio today is Soner Çağaptay, a senior fellow at The Washington Institute and author of many books on modern Turkey, including “A Sultan in Autumn: Erdogan Faces Turkey’s Uncontainable Forces” – available here.Çağaptay outlined the shift in US-Turkey ties under the Trump administration, which appears to be viewing Ankara as an increasingly valuable partner for achieving US policy goals in the region. Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo hosted the talk.Topics discussed include Turkey’s apparent hand in bringing Hamas to the negotiating table, Turkey’s potential role in post-war Gaza as well as what this could mean for the Syria transition and future defense sector procurements for Ankara.Also referenced in this talk:Turkish experts await Israeli go ahead to help recover bodies in Gaza (AFP)Turkish NGO begins cleanup, debris removal operations in Gaza (Yeni Şafak)The Ceasefire in Gaza: Views on Security, Palestinian Governance, and Regional Dynamics (Washington Institute)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Prof. Dr. Seda Demiralp joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the state of Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) amid mounting corruption investigations – which many citizens view as politicized judicial pressure.Demiralp comments on the looming investigation into CHP Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş, a potential presidential contender as the opposition frontrunner, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu, remains in jail since March 2025.Also discussed is the leadership of CHP chair Özgür Özel, his pro-democracy rally in Brussels Sunday and what might be driving the ruling AKP-MHP bloc’s electoral strategy.Also referenced in this talk:Turkish Prosecutors Plan Misconduct Probe of Ankara Mayor (Bloomberg - Gift)CHP held its first overseas rally in Brussels: ‘We are taking note of those who remain silent about the coup in Turkey’ (BBC Türkçe)Undecided Voters, Anxious Choices: Between Mental Resilience and Fear of Being Tricked (Emotics Lab Research)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Zaur Shiriyev, a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process.Shiriyev outlined the current state of negotiations as well as implications for Turkey, the Zangezur transit corridor and what’s at stake for Russia, Iran, Central Asian nations and the European Union.Israel-Azerbaijan relations were also covered in addition to Baku’s role in the Organization of Turkic States, which held its 12th Summit between leaders as this webcast was recorded.Also referenced in this talk:Leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan shake hands and sign deal at White House peace summit (AP)As They Edge Toward Peace, Armenia and Azerbaijan Must Resist Old Habits (Carnegie) An Unlikely Road to Peace for Armenia and Azerbaijan (Foreign Affairs)Armenia and Azerbaijan: The Hard Road to a Lasting Peace (Crisis Group)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Joining Recap radio this week is Burak Bilgehan Özpek, a professor of political science at TOBB University of Economics and Technology and long-time political commentator for the online publication, Daktilo1984.Together with Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo, Özpek shared his views on why the PKK peace process might collapse, potential faults in the AKP-MHP ruling alliance and succession debates over who might follow Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.The ongoing crackdown on the main opposition CHP was also discussed, along with the Syria transition, Turkey’s current geopolitical value and the role of the international community.Also referenced in this talk:Top pro-Kurdish lawmakers urge faster steps in Turkey’s PKK peace plan (Reuters)Bahçeli calls for Türkiye to join Russia, China in counter alliance (HDN)Turkish foreign minister’s remarks on KAAN fighter jet engine fuel succession rumours (Philenews)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Arife Köse, a PhD researcher at the University of East Anglia, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the crackdown on Turkey's opposition, the Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) response and what comes next.They covered the CHP’s extraordinary congress on Sept. 21 and CHP Chair Özgür Özel’s mandate in the face of ongoing judicial pressure that has seen hundreds of party members investigated and/or jailed this year.Köse also outlined how the Turkish government has moved from designing electoral competition to designing the opposition, in general.Also referenced in this talk:Embattled Turkey opposition re-elects leader at party congress (AFP)Turkey: Erdogan rival Imamoğlu stands trial (DW)Trump says to host Turkey's Erdogan at White House on Sept. 25 (Reuters)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Wolfango Piccoli, co-president of political risk advisory services at Teneo, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey’s economy, how markets approach political risk and what the government is doing (or not) to stem years of high inflation.Piccoli covered investor sentiments towards Turkey, the implications of the ongoing crackdown on the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) and what all that means for Turkey’s economic trajectory, both domestically and in international trade relations.They also discussed the sustainability of the ruling Justice and Development Party’s (AKP) development model as well as high food and rent inflation, which is increasingly felt by Turkish citizens as they lose purchasing power.Also referenced in this talk:Consumer Price Index, August 2025 (TÜIK)Türkiye Releases 2025-2027 Medium-Term Program (Investment and Finance Office)Turkish markets rally as key opposition ruling delayed (Reuters)Turkey's market rout worsens amid protests, worst stock slump since 2008 (Reuters)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Gönül Tol, director of the Turkey Program at the Middle East Institute, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey’s democratic backsliding, the PKK peace process and Ankara’s Syria policy.This podcast was recorded shortly after a court-appointed trustee took over the leadership of the main opposition Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) Istanbul provincial headquarters amid wide-spanning corruption investigations into the party.Tol covered the CHP’s response to date, what recent developments mean for democratic elections in Turkey and how peace negotiations with the PKK impact both domestic and foreign policy, with a focus on SDF-Damascus talks in Syria.Also referenced in this talk:Don’t Trust Erdogan’s ‘Peace Process’ With the Kurds (Foreign Policy)Erdoğan’s War: A Strongman’s Struggle at Home and in Syria (Oxford University Press)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Neslihan Çevik, a sociologist, former politician, consultant and non-resident fellow at the Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture at the University of Virginia, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss falling fertility rates in Turkey.Çevik expanded on the ideas she outlined in a recent commentary for the National News, titled “This is what the Muslim world needs to do to boost its birth rate”. Using examples from Turkey, the Middle East and other regions, Çevik argued marriage norms and expectations play a larger role in determining birth rates than other more commonly cited – and more polarizing – theories.Also referenced in this talk:Birth Statistics, 2023 (TurkStat)Statistics on Child, 2024 (TurkStat)Dependency and depopulation? Confronting the consequences of a new demographic reality (McKinsey. & Company)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Long-time journalist Andrew Finkel joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss media culture and media capture in Turkey under the Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.Having contributed to both international and Turkish media outlets, Finkel has a unique perspective on news in Turkey. He witnessed the transformation of mainstream media from the 1990s till the present day, in which about 90 percent of the sector is pro-government or owned by government-friendly companies.In this episode, we cover the AKP’s consolidation of mainstream media, what that means for people following news about Turkey, and we connect those trends with the current state of free speech and politics in Turkey … possibly, providing examples or warnings for countries experiencing similar threats to free speech, like the US.Finkel is also co-founder of P24, a non-profit platform for independent journalism and free expression in Turkey, and author of the book: “The Adventure of the Second Wife: The Strange Case of Abdülahamid and Sherlock Holmes”.Also referenced in this talk:The Crack in Everything (P24)Tales from the Turkish newsroom: Why Newspapers Sometimes Lie (Anglo-Turkish Society)Turkey: What Everyone Needs to Know (Oxford University Press)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Mohammed A. Salih, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute and analyst of Kurdish affairs, joined Turkey recap editor-in-chief Diego Cupolo to discuss developments in Syria and how they may factor into the Turkey-PKK peace process.Salih covered recent clashes in southern Syria between Bedouin and Druze groups, which left more than 1,400 dead. He also discussed how recent instability in Syria is viewed by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which has been engaging the central government in Damascus on integration efforts.Implications for Ankara are included throughout with considerations on regional actors, such as the United States, Israel, Iran and Iraq.Also referenced in this talk:Blood in Suwayda: How Sharaa is further alienating Syria’s minorities (The New Region)Unlikely Alliances and Confrontations: Türkiye, Israel, and Iran in post-Assad Syria (New Lines Institute)GeoSpace Ep. 9 with Joshua Landis: Minorities and centralization in post-Suwayda Syria (The New Region)Your Commission, Should You Choose To Accept It (Turkey recap)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Independent researcher Nareg Seferian joined Turkey recap editor-in-chief Diego Cupolo to discuss Armenia-Azerbaijan peace talks and their implications for the region.They covered the July 10 meeting between Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani Pres. Ilham Aliyev in Abu Dhabi and their efforts to finalize a peace agreement in the aftermath of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War.The peace talks will not only impact Eurasian energy and trade – through projects like the Zangezur corridor – but could also revive stalled normalization efforts between Turkey and Armenia.All of the above has repercussions for the balance of power in the South Caucasus, where Russia, Iran, the European Union and the United States compete for influence.Also referenced in this talk:Nareg Seferian’s websiteUS Management of the Zangezur Corridor In The Caucasus? Iran Won't Like It. (RFERL)The Joint Declaration following the First European Union-Central Asia SummitTurkish MFA statement regarding Turkey-Armenia normalizationOther ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Turkey recap editor-in-chief Diego Cupolo spoke with Lisel Hintz, assistant professor of International Relations at Johns Hopkins University SAIS and author of the book: “Identity Politics Inside Out: National Identity Contestation and Foreign Policy in Turkey.”They discussed how narratives in pro-government media aim to create cultural and political hegemony in Turkey under Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his Justice and Development Party (AKP).Topics covered include the PKK peace process, ongoing judicial pressure on the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) and the AKP’s grand strategy for the so-called ‘New Turkey’.Also referenced in this talk:Published article: "Cooking Shows as Conservative Gender Edutainment in Authoritarian Regimes: Recipe for (New) Turkey," in Politics & Gender.Forthcoming article co-authored with Jonas Bergan Draege: "Film-Making the Nation Great Again: Audio-Visualizing History in the Authoritarian Toolkit" in Perspectives on Politics.Other ways to watch & listen: Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Today, Turkey recap editor-in-chief Diego Cupolo spoke with Gallia Lindenstrauss, a senior research fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, an independent think tank affiliated with Tel Aviv University in Israel.They discussed Israel-Turkey relations through the lens of the Israel-Iran war, developments in Syria, the PKK peace process, the Gaza war, Hamas and more.In addition, the talk covered the meaning of Turkish Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s oft-repeated phrase "The world is bigger than five" and how the Israeli government sees the nation’s future in a multipolar world.Referenced in this talk:“Iran was battered by Israel and US, but its regime is intact as Iranians rally around flag, says Vali Nasr” (Al-Monitor)“A Fairer World is Possible” by Recep Tayyip Erdoğan“The World After Gaza” by Pankaj MishraOther ways to watch & listen: Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Today, we spoke with Aaron Stein, president of the US-based Foreign Policy Research Institute and author of the book: “US War Against ISIS: How America and its Allies Defeated the Caliphate”.Topics covered include Iran, Israel, the US and Turkey’s place in the conflict now unfolding on NATO’s eastern border. We also discussed the potential implications of the Syria transition and the Turkey-PKK peace process on Ankara-Washington relations.And, of course, we addressed the many security architecture questions regarding Turkey’s weapons industry, European defense needs and the prospects for Ankara’s return to the F-35 fighter jet program.Reports referenced in this talk include:“The Time is Right to Sell F-35 to Turkey” by Aaron Stein“Turkey’s New Foreign Policy: Ankara’s Ambitions, Regional Responses, and Implications for the United States” by Aaron Stein and Nicholas DanforthOther ways to watch & listen: Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Here’s our live webcast with Berk Esen, an associate professor of political science at Sabancı University in İstanbul and co-author of the book, Türkiye'nin Yeni Rejimi: Rekabetçi Otoriterlik.We discussed the mounting trials faced by Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), including investigations against imprisoned Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu, who faces a political ban for corruption charges that he denies.We also covered the CHP Congress case, which could lead to government intervention on the management structure of Turkey’s founding party, raising questions about the future of Özgür Özel’s leadership, the potential return of former chair Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu and the health of Turkish democracy.Other ways to watch & listen: Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Watch our live webcast with Alexander McKeever, a researcher based in Amman, Jordan, and author of the newsletter This Week in Northern Syria.We discussed developments in Syria six months after regime change and took questions from the audience.Topics covered include SDF-Damascus negotiations, domestic security, repatriation and internal migration, impacts of the Turkey-PKK peace process and the influence of foreign actors, such as the United States, Israel, Russia, the Gulf states and more.Other ways to watch & listen: Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or where ever you get your podcasts.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Watch our live webcast with Ezgi Başaran, author of the book Frontline Turkey: The Conflict at the Heart of the Middle East and the newsletter Angle, Anchor, and Voice.We put the Turkey-PKK peace process in context and discussed what to expect next. We also took audience questions.Other ways to watch & listen:1. Visit turkeyrecap.com or the Substack app2. Make sure you are logged in and subscribe to Turkey recap3. Check our Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTubeTurkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for a student discount). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Watch our live webcast with Selim Koru, writer of Kültürkampf and author of the book New Turkey and the Far Right, and Diego Cupolo, editor-in-chief of Turkey recap.We discussed the PKK’s decision to dissolve today as well as implications for Turkey and the region. We also took audience questions, and Selim took a few delivery packages while on air.Other ways to watch & listen:1. Visit turkeyrecap.com or the Substack app2. Make sure you are logged in and subscribe to Turkey recap3. Check our Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTubeTurkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for a student discount). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Turkish Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan visited Rome Tuesday for a Turkey-Italy intergovernmental summit, highlighting fast-developing trade and defense ties between the two NATO allies.In recent months, Turkish defense firm Baykar acquired Italy’s Piaggio Aerospace and announced a joint venture to produce drones with Italy’s defense giant, Leonardo.To make sense of bilateral relations and what they mean for European security, we hosted a livestream with the authors of the recent analysis: “Europe’s defense awakening and its strategic partners: Any place for Turkey?”The above is our recording with Riccardo Gasco, foreign policy program coordinator at the IstanPol Institute and doctoral researcher at the University of Bologna, and Samuele Abrami, a Mercator-IPC Fellow and researcher at the Barcelona Centre for International Affairs. They also host the Cose Turche News podcast with Eleonora Masi.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for a student discount). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.turkeyrecap.comWith long tractor convoys and high attendance, the CHP’s mass rally in the conservative Yozgat province on April 19 looked like a potential turning point for the opposition movement in Turkey. But was it?To gauge where the CHP stood one month after the arrest of İstanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu (and more), we hosted a live video chat with Michael Sercan Da…