Turkey’s Strategic Shift in Russian Gas Trade

From Buyer to Broker: Turkey’s Rising Role in Russian Energy Trade

A New Chapter in Regional Energy Politics

Turkey is no longer just a buyer of Russian gas. It is fast emerging as a critical Turkish gas hub, bridging East and West. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak recently praised Turkey as a reliable transit partner. His comments highlight Turkey’s growing influence in Russian gas exports and energy geopolitics.

A Historic Partnership Rooted in Realpolitik

The energy partnership between Russia and Turkey dates back to the Cold War. In 1984, Ankara signed its first natural gas deal with the Soviet Union. Deliveries began in 1987, marking the start of decades-long energy cooperation. The 2003 launch of the Blue Stream pipeline—running under the Black Sea—was a milestone. It created a direct energy corridor, bypassing third countries.

Despite diversifying its suppliers, including Iran, Azerbaijan, and Algeria, Turkey remained dependent on Russia due to favorable contracts and infrastructure investments. This dependency transformed into strategic cooperation, securing Turkey’s place in Moscow’s long-term energy strategy.

TurkStream: Transforming Energy Transit

The TurkStream pipeline, operational since January 2020, elevated Turkey’s role from customer to conduit. Each of its two lines can carry 15.75 billion cubic meters of gas annually. One line feeds the Turkish market; the other supplies Europe.

Between 2020 and 2024, the pipeline transported over 104 billion cubic meters of gas. Russia’s share in Turkey’s imports reached 41.3% in 2024. More than 59 billion cubic meters flowed to Europe, positioning Turkey as a key energy transit hub.

Towards a Turkish Gas Hub: Strategic Realignment

The idea of a Turkish gas hub gained momentum after a 2023 meeting between Presidents Erdogan and Putin. With EU sanctions restricting Russian gas routes, Turkey offers an alternative gateway. Gazprom and BOTAS signed a four-year deal in 2022 to ensure steady gas flows via TurkStream.

If realized, this hub will enable Turkey to set regional gas prices and mediate supply across Europe and Asia. It also positions Turkey at the center of global energy politics, balancing Western alliances with Eastern partnerships.

Turkey’s Role in Shaping the Future of Energy

Turkey’s evolution into a Turkish gas hub signifies more than an infrastructural upgrade. It reshapes global energy diplomacy. By aligning strategic geography with pragmatic policy, Turkey is poised to redefine energy trade between East and West.