Speaking to local media on Sunday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hinted at his growing global influence, positioning himself and Russian President Vladimir Putin as the world’s most prominent leaders. Highlighting his perceived significance, Erdogan stated, “There are only two of us left among the leaders. Right now, it’s just me and Vladimir Putin.”
Erdogan’s remarks come amid a potential shift in the Middle East’s power dynamics. The possible transition of power in Damascus, moving away from Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his primary backers, Russia and Iran, is poised to reshape the region. Analysts suggest that Turkey, under Erdogan’s leadership, could emerge as a key power broker, leveraging its geopolitical position and diplomatic influence.
This development also reflects Erdogan’s broader strategy to solidify Turkey’s role as a regional powerhouse, balancing relationships with NATO, the EU, and its alliances with Russia and other non-Western states.