Turkey’s Defense Ministry has put forward a $1.2 billion pipeline proposal aimed at bolstering energy security across NATO’s eastern borders, according to the „Hurriyet” daily following an initial report by Bloomberg. The ministry claims this initiative is five times more economical than existing alternatives and can be completed much faster once greenlit.
The proposed infrastructure is designed to fortify NATO’s fuel logistics in response to the war in Ukraine and mounting tensions in the Middle East, such as recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Authorities in Ankara argue that the pipeline will enhance fuel interoperability and supply stability among allies, while also ensuring that NATO’s shared funds are utilized efficiently.
Ankara is actively seeking backing for the proposal ahead of the upcoming July NATO summit. „Hurriyet” notes that the Turkish plan aligns perfectly with the broader ambitions of Eastern European members, including Poland and Romania. These countries have long been pushing to expand NATO’s Cold War-era pipeline network further east. Currently, this 10,000-kilometer fuel system spans 12 countries but terminates in Germany.
