What Rick Scott said
U.S. Senator Rick Scott sharply criticized Turkey during a visit to Greece and Cyprus on October 17, describing Ankara’s conduct toward the two countries as “thuggish” and saying Turkey was not acting like a NATO ally. The Florida Republican cited disputes over airspace and maritime boundaries, as well as Turkey’s continued military presence in northern Cyprus. His comments were reported by The Associated Press.
The energy dispute behind the latest headlines
Scott’s remarks came amid renewed tension over a planned undersea electricity connection between Greece and Cyprus, with a possible extension to Israel. Turkey says it should be consulted before seabed surveys proceed. Scott voiced support for the project and said the United States would work to ensure it was not disrupted.
A long-running regional disagreement
Greece and Turkey are both NATO members, but have longstanding disagreements over maritime boundaries and airspace in the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean. Cyprus has also remained divided since 1974. The senator’s remarks add a pointed U.S. voice to a dispute that touches on security, energy and relations among NATO allies.
Scott is a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations committees. His comments reflect his position; they do not by themselves signal a change in U.S. policy. The latest development to watch is whether the electricity project and related seabed surveys move forward amid calls for consultation.