Ankara sanctions loom ahead of EU summit

Turkey is facing a renewed threat of EU sanctions over its controversial drilling activities in the eastern Mediterranean, after European leaders lined up to condemn Ankara’s “provocations” in the region. The latest salvo of criticism comes ahead of a major EU summit in December, when Brussels will discuss punitive measures against Turkey over its natural gas exploration in the contested waters. Statements by European leaders, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, show that Brussels is unlikely to step back from its threat to impose curbs following Turkey’s insistence on carrying out drilling in disputed zones. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said that the EU could con

The EU leaders’ summit will take place on Dec. 10-11 in Brussels.

sider imposing sanctions against Turkey in December if Ankara failed to halt its “provocations” in the region.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned Ankara that it is “widening its separation from the EU,” adding that the bloc was “approaching a watershed moment” in its relationship with Turkey. The EU leaders’ summit will take place on Dec. 10-11 in Brussels. Experts believe that Brussels is likely to introduce specific sanctions, including a ban on entering European ports for some individuals and companies.

France, Austria and Greece are pushing the EU to take tough measures, including the suspension of the customs union with Turkey.