[mkjessup]

If Putin goes so far as to break off diplomatic relations with Turkey (Russia has already broken all economic links), and if Russia enforces their no-fly zone over Syria, combined with ending charter vacation flights from Russia to Turkey (a huge moneymaker for Turkey), what is NATO going to do about that?

Turkey IS in huge trouble, Article 5 or no Article 5.

Erdogan trusted Obama. BIG mistake.


"You f--ked up, you trusted us!"

[VerySadAmerican]

And the Negroes stole their dates.

[kabar]

If Putin goes so far as to break off diplomatic relations with Turkey (Russia has already broken all economic links), and if Russia enforces their no-fly zone over Syria, combined with ending charter vacation flights from Russia to Turkey (a huge moneymaker for Turkey), what is NATO going to do about that?

NATO does not have to do anything. Russia is cutting off its nose to spite its face, if it cuts off all economic activity. In 2014, according to Turkish foreign trade statistics, exports to Russia were worth $5.9 billion while imports from Russia were worth $25.2 billion.

As of 2012 the oil-and-gas sector accounted for 16% of the GDP, 52% of federal budget revenues and over 70% of total exports. The Russian economy is contracting due to sanctions and declining oil prices. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) downgraded its economic forecast for Russia as it projects recession of 3.8% in GDP for 2015 and of 0.6% for 2016.

I doubt that Russia will scrap the deal the build a new oil pipeline thru Turkey to reach Western Europe or its plans to build a nuclear power plant in Turkey. There will be lots of bluster with little impact.

If Putin continues his war in Ukraine and a new one in Syria, he will be the one in trouble. The Russians can't afford it. The corrupt KGB punk is stealing huge amounts of money, no doubt in a Swiss bank account.

[skimbell]

"Erdogan trusted Obama. BIG mistake.

That's the money line.

Bet he chit when 0 wouldn't take his calls.