Ankara may use factor of Crimean Tatars against Russia – expert
Russia is the only serious rival of Turkey in the Black Sea region. Turkey has certain advantages over Russia because it controls the Dardanelles and Bosphorus straits, Turkish studies expert Gevorg Petrosyan told reporters while commenting on the geopolitical importance of Crimea.
According to him, Ankara may use the factor of the Crimean Tatars who have pro-Turkish views.
“Many thousands of Tatars living in Turkey held protests against Russia, expressing their support for the Crimean Tatars,” he said.
Expert Karen Vrtanesyan said for his part that Gulenist schools function in Crimea and Turkey has been working with Crimea for a long time.
He noted that the “Georgian scenario” is likely to be implemented out in Crimea.
“The West may only make anti-Russian statements and impose some sanctions, but war is unlikely to break out,” Vrtanesyan added.