Turkey is rolling out sweeping security measures for the upcoming NATO summit, deploying tens of thousands of police and placing air defenses on high alert, while banning public gatherings and imposing controversial restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly.
That’s meant to safeguard the summit, but also to display strength and underscore Turkey’s commitment to the military alliance, even as it is often portrayed as an outlier within it.
On July 7–8, leaders from all 32 member states are expected convene in the Turkish capital, including US President Donald Trump, whose threats to withdraw from NATO and reduce US troop levels have cast uncertainty over the alliance’s future.
Turkey has also unveiled a new VIP airport, converted from a former military airfield, specifically to host NATO leaders.
Allies will aim for unity
