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Turkey as a US Counterweight to China: The Geopolitical Role of the Pan-Turkic Sphere

Туреччина як стратегічний партнер США у глобальній конкуренції з Китаєм: важливість пан-тюркського простору для міжнародної політики.

Analyzing the US Strategic Approach to China

In a discussion hosted by political analyst Yuriy Romanenko, economist Oleksiy Kushch presented an analysis of US strategy toward China. Kushch suggested the United States may be backing a Pan-Turkic geopolitical bloc, led by Turkey, to act as a buffer against Chinese influence. He indicated this strategy aims to counter China's efforts to advance its policies in the Western Hemisphere. This reflects a broader US pattern of seeking regional partners to manage the rise of a strategic competitor.

Proxy Forces and Geopolitical Blocs

Kushch emphasized that the US is looking for proxy forces in key regions to bolster its global reach. The Pan-Turkic geopolitical cluster, also known as the Greater Turan concept, is becoming a significant element in this approach. He noted that signs of this scenario are already visible in US-Turkish relations and regional conflicts.

'We are already observing these processes now. Essentially, what is happening in Syria, the shift in US geopolitics in the Middle East, the rapprochement with Turkey, the development of the Greater Turan project based on Turkey, and the project of a new Ottoman Empire' - Oleksiy Kushch

According to the economist, the US will encourage the expansion of Turkish influence in the Middle East, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia. The goal of these actions is to create a barrier against China's 'Belt and Road' initiative and to limit Russia's room for maneuver. Kushch stated:

'Most likely, the US will attempt to prevail in these world-system wars by forming the Pan-Turkic geopolitical cluster, which is key for them at the moment' - Oleksiy Kushch

Thus, the US strategy of countering China by activating Turkey and the Pan-Turkic cluster is growing more relevant amid contemporary geopolitical challenges. This points to intensifying competition among major powers, where each side seeks new methods to sustain its influence in strategically vital world regions. Such shifts in the geopolitical landscape could significantly impact international relations and security in the areas where these strategies are implemented.