The SWP Research Paper titled "Turkey and Russia: The Logic of Conflictual Cooperation" examines the bilateral relationship between Turkey and Russia, focusing on its sustainability, grounding, and potential for conflict or cooperation. The paper argues that the relationship is based on mutual recognition of security interests and the prospect of collaborative projects that promise greater advantages than continued conflict. Trust and personal relations are of secondary importance, while interdependence between Russia and Turkey is key. The potential for confrontation or cooperation in regional conflicts depends on current priorities rather than past rivalries. The paper concludes that the form and extent of collaboration between Turkey and Russia are determined by their respective motives.
