In a significant move to bolster strategic cooperation, the European Union has appointed its first military advisor to Turkey earlier this month, according to a Western official familiar with the matter. This decision reflects ongoing discussions in Brussels about Turkey’s pivotal role in the broader European security framework, particularly in light of the geopolitical shifts following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Colonel Adam Grzymkowski, formerly Poland’s defence attaché in Ankara, has been named as the military advisor to the head of the EU delegation in Turkey, as reported by TurDef, a Turkish defence-focused news outlet. In a reciprocal arrangement, Turkey will also appoint a defence advisor to its mission in Brussels. Both advisors will operate under diplomatic status, emphasizing the diplomatic rather than formal military nature of their roles.
The EU has been actively enhancing its dialogue with Ankara over the past year, marked by increased high-level visits and coordination meetings. Europe increasingly acknowledges the necessity of Turkey’s cooperation in countering Russian influence. A senior German official highlighted the importance of deepening defence partnerships with Turkey, particularly in areas such as military drone technology, where Turkey has demonstrated significant advancements.
Additionally, the EU plans to appoint a diplomat focused on sanctions compliance, specifically targeting Russia’s ‘black fleet,’ which transports sanctioned oil. This move aligns with Turkey’s decision to reduce Russian oil imports in October following new US sanctions on Russia’s energy sector.
The appointment of a military advisor underscores the EU’s commitment to strengthening ties with Turkey, recognizing its strategic importance in regional security and defence cooperation.