Murat Sofuoglu

Is Russia's military move in Venezuela an antidote to US supremacy?

Moscow recently deployed two nuclear-capable bombers in Venezuela, triggering widespread speculation that the country was ready to face any military challenge stemming from the US.

Is the US seeking new YPG-free alternatives in northern Syria?

A US special envoy to Syria recently held a meeting with the Kurdish opposition to the YPG in Turkey's south, sparking speculations about Washington’s long-term goals.

Can Afghanistan successfully regulate its private militias?

Kabul recently signalled that it wants to keep a tight rein on the multitude of armed groups that run amok across much of the country — some backed by Afghanistan and the US — who want to impose their own version of local governance.

Is Bangladesh's military scaling back its political profile?

Weeks before crucial elections, senior military officers voice uncharacteristic support for the governing Awami League despite a history of tense relations.

Iran appears steadfast despite Washington's war threat

In an open threat to Iran, Washington says a military confrontation is possible with Iran, outlining a long list of complaints against the Islamic Republic, but experts in Tehran say any US aggression will be a major miscalculation.

Is the Pentagon report on Turkey's F-35 bid misleading?

The Pentagon says it will reassess the promised delivery of F-35s to Turkey, but the report doesn't address Ankara's major concerns.

Turkey-US ties likely to hit new low over military posts in northern Syria

Slamming the US for planning to install military observatory posts in northern Syria, Turkey's defense minister said the move will create a countrywide impression that “American soldiers are somehow protecting YPG terrorists.”

Who are the BLA and why did they attack a Chinese consulate in Pakistan?

As the Baloch separatist group launched an unprecedented armed strike against a Chinese mission, experts on the ground say the assault was meant to threaten Beijing to roll back its economic investments in the resource-rich province of Balochistan.

Trump's anti-Iran rhetoric brings differing voices in Tehran together

While the US president seeks support to take down Iran's ruling establishment, the hardliners and reformists in the Shia majority country are setting aside their differences over Obama-brokered nuclear deal, from which Trump has recently withdrawn.

Why has Turkey grown distant from its EU membership goal?

Long before Brexit and before several European countries called for a European army on the margins of NATO, Turkey had stopped pursuing its long-term interest in joining the EU. A former EU minister explains why Ankara changed its course.

Recordings of Khashoggi a "smoking gun" for top level Saudi involvement

Despite Saudi denials, more evidence has emerged, pointing to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's involvement in Khashoggi's murder. How long can the kingdom evade the ongoing diplomatic crisis?

Can Libya talks in Italy help Tripoli and its rivals end the civil war?

A two-day conference will be hosted in Palermo to bring Libya's rival governments to the table, but some prominent Libyans have more confidence in the UN-backed talks scheduled forJanuary 2019.