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EU's Michel counters von der Leyen on Turkey

Former European Council chief Charles Michel publicly countered Ursula von der Leyen for grouping Turkey with Russia and China.

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Wednesday, 22 April 2026 at 17:40 UTC
EU's Michel counters von der Leyen on Turkey
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Former European Council President Charles Michel has publicly challenged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's recent remarks that grouped Turkey alongside Russia and China as external influences. Michel emphasized Turkey's role as a core NATO ally, a critical energy hub, and a key partner on migration, calling for a more realistic and strategic EU policy towards Ankara. The public disagreement highlights internal EU tensions over how to manage relations with Turkey, balancing its geopolitical importance against concerns over its democratic trajectory. Michel's intervention suggests a push within European institutions to avoid alienating a strategically vital partner.
e/eineurope · topic · T-04660