Turkey: Russian president to visit Ankara December 11

Event

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to make an official visit to Ankara on Monday, December 11, to discuss global developments with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Among the issues on the agenda is the recent US recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and the US’s intention to relocate its embassy to the contested city. An increased security presence and related transportation disruptions are expected in the capital for the duration of Putin’s visit.

Context

On December 5, US President Trump announced that the US officially recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a departure from the previous US and international position of neutrality on the status of the city claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians; no country currently has an embassy in Jerusalem. Many world leaders have strongly advised the US administration against the move, claiming it would render impossible the establishment of a Palestinian state and would inflame tensions across the Muslim world. Protests against the move have broken out across the globe.

Advice

Individuals in Ankara are advised to anticipate transportation disruptions (including road closures and increased congestion surrounding the visit), to cooperate with local authorities, and to avoid any potential demonstrations due to risk of violence.