Trump, Erdogan and tensions in the Aegean and Cyprus

Understanding the dangers that loom as a result of the latest developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, Washington is exerting its influence. However, sound assessments and solid predictions cannot be made given the uncharted territory in which US-Turkish relations are now moving.
Meanwhile, the bureaucracy, including the Pentagon, is furious over the case of the Russian S-400 weapons systems. Clear messages are being sent out. On a symbolic level, statements are made about "provocative actions." At the same time, officials here in Washington insist that they mean what they say and are moving to the next phase, drafting sanctions targeting the Turkish economy. Nevertheless, almost everyone is conveying the message that the US does not want to "lose" Turkey.
Geopolitically speaking, they do not want the hitherto secular and Western-style democracy - with all its...