Turkey is far more than the beaches of Antalya or the tourist hubs of Istanbul; it is a sophisticated "middle power" that masterfully maneuvers between global centers of influence.
This assessment was shared by diplomat Sergiy Korsunsky, who served as Ukraine's ambassador to Turkey for eight years, during an interview with political analyst Yuriy Romanenko.
The diplomat debunked the popular myth that Ukrainian tourists truly know the country. According to him, the real Turkey remains hidden from vacationers deep within Anatolia.
"If you have only been to Antalya, you haven't seen Turkey. Even if you have been to Istanbul, you haven't seen Turkey... You need to go deep inside, into the mountains, to see these people... To see the dervishes. You have to immerse yourself very deeply in all of this," Korsunsky emphasized.
Commenting on the political resilience of Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the former ambassador described him as a unique figure capable of governing such a multi-layered nation.
"You really have to give credit to Erdogan—he is a genius at managing such a complex country, keeping it afloat, and, moreover, strengthening its international authority," the diplomat noted.
Sergiy Korsunsky explained that Ankara’s geopolitical strategy, which often frustrates its partners, is actually a calculated game played by a "middle power." Turkey understands its own strength but avoids unnecessary conflicts, particularly with an unpredictable Russia.
"Turkey pursues a policy of 'both yours and ours.' It maneuvers between them like a classic middle power that understands where its strength lies... But at the same time, there is no need to pointlessly provoke the madmen who are still out there," Korsunsky concluded.