On the occasion of the developments in Syria and the "Peace Operation" launched by Erdogan under the pretext of creating a 120 x 35 km security zone (almost equal to 50% of the territory of Cyprus), it is easy to compare his expansionist policy. Erdogan with Hitler's counterpart during the period 1933 -1939.
A simple comparison of events and developments with the current situation proves that the history of Hitler-Erdogan is similar and is repeated in another place with other original players. Both had the ability to exert great influence and fanatize the masses with fiery speeches praising their "superior" race. The main characteristics of both are arrogance and narcissism. To such people these elements cause excessive and uncontrollable ambition and in combination with the power and military power they possess they are on the path of destruction for themselves but unfortunately also for those who find themselves in their path.
From 1933 to 1939, Hitler occupied Czechoslovakia, Poland, Austria, and the Netherlands without a substantial battle, sometimes claiming protection of local Nazi organizations and sometimes the German minority, or even provocatively attacking him. dead Germans !! The western countries France - Great Britain and the USA were watching with concern without having a plan and determination to react, hoping that Hitler would stop in the East. In fact, the British Prime Minister Chamberlain himself went to Germany and returned waving solemnly descending from the plane the agreement with Hitler for the "no attack" pact. And Stalin, in order to prevent and profit from Hitler's expansionist policy, signed a secret agreement with Hitler for the division of Poland, as was done temporarily. The final fate of Hitler and Germany is known but it overtook and destroyed the whole world with 45,000,000 dead.
Erdogan follows the same practice, taking advantage of his omnipotence in Turkey and the disadvantage of Western and EU countries failing to make immediate and effective decisions to deal with him, because their leaders think first of their own. image in the public opinion of their country in order to keep them in power and secondarily the common interest and the observance of international law. Their reaction will be dynamic only when they are severely beaten by their vital national interests and their own image within their own country.
The "security zone" that Erdogan is trying to create in Syria (with the tolerance of the Great Powers and his promise that he will not go beyond proportionality) will probably be transferred to Turkish or pro-Turkish Islamists, who in a few years by referendum which will be artificially organized by Turkey, the "union with mother Turkey" will be voted in favor. Thus, the first phase of expansion with the "Eastern Peace Operation" will be completed. Turkey's next target is obviously the Eastern Mediterranean, including occupied Cyprus and the EEZ of the Republic of Cyprus, and the third target is Greece and half of the Aegean. You do not need a fortune teller to predict Turkey's short-term - medium-term and long-term moves. For many years, as shown on the map, they had outlined their aspirations under the name "Turkish jurisdictions" such as Flight Control Area (FIR), Search and Rescue (SAR) and NAVTEX. Until 2018, in the Eastern Mediterranean and especially in the EEZ of K.D., the battle of NAVTEX took place, which today turned into a battle of drilling. The pursuit of jurisdiction and obligations in violation of international regulations IMO kai ICAO is a precursor to the extension of their sovereignty following the principle "I undertook obligations and therefore I have the rights" For this reason the Republic of Cyprus must observe in full readiness and capacity all the competent services (KSED-DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL AVIATION-METEOROLOGICAL SERVICE - HYDROGRAPHIC SERVICE)
Erdogan's arrogance and narcissism are very dangerous characteristics for the security of all states in the region, but the weaknesses that stem from them are also a given. In order for the Eastern Mediterranean region not to become a tool of Turkish expansionist policy and turn into a huge graveyard of ships and people, the Great Powers and neighboring countries must be convinced that Turkey's course will not only be catastrophic for the countries in the region but also for their own huge interests in the Eastern Mediterranean from where 60% of world oil production is transferred.
As mentioned in previous articles, the Republic of Cyprus must be constantly vigilant and insightful of the politicians to act in any supportive direction. Unfortunately, there are not many options other than legal-diplomatic, economic with the interconnection of our national interests with the vital interests of the great powers (especially France) and at the operational level the implementation in the sea and air space of the Eastern Mediterranean region. cooperation with aeronautical forces with the assistance of Cyprus in infrastructure and telecommunication and technical support.
We will reiterate at every opportunity that the strengthening of our defense in parallel with the practical reinstatement of the Doctrine of the Unified Defense Area of Greece and Cyprus is extremely necessary and immediately imposed so that if we are unprovokedly attacked we react in the context of self-defense to cause disproportionate costs and defend perfect our national dignity!
* Of Vice Admiral (e.a) Konstantinos Fytiris