The Straits question according to Russian sources (1936-1946)

This thesis examines the Straits Question from 1936 to 1946. The issue of the Straits is analyzed within its historical context, focusing on the period of World War II and relying on Russian sources. During the Tsarist era, Peter the Great's policy of reaching warm waters highlighted the importance of relations with the Ottoman Empire. In this context, Russian diplomat Ukraintsev was sent to Istanbul to facilitate commercial activities in the Straits, and this policy continued for years. In the 19th century, conflicts and political-commercial agreements occurred between the Ottoman Empire and Tsarist Russia. Tsarist Russia's policy on the Straits was driven by strategic interests to reach warm waters and control sea routes. The Bolsheviks' rise to power and the start of the Turkish National Struggle brought Bolshevik leaders closer to Turkish leaders. However, during the Lausanne Peace Conference, discussions about the Straits occasionally led to tensions between the two countries. The Soviets demanded that the Straits be closed to warships, but this was not achieved in Lausanne, leaving the Soviets dissatisfied. In 1936, the Montreux Convention Regarding the Regime of the Straits was signed to secure Turkey's sovereignty and regulate maritime traffic. The Soviets were partially satisfied with this convention, as it imposed certain restrictions on the passage of warships. However, since the Soviets had broader strategic goals, Montreux did not provide the full freedom of movement they desired. During World War II, the Soviets criticized the Montreux Convention and sought to establish greater control and influence over the Straits. Turkey's policy of neutrality during the war and its alignment with the United States drew Soviet criticism, affecting Turkey's foreign policy. This thesis evaluates the impact of Soviet policies regarding the Straits on their relations with Turkey, based on Russian sources and archives. Specifically, it examines how the Soviet stance on the Straits influenced Turkey's foreign policy. Keywords: Turkish Straits, Soviet Union, Turkey, Montreux Convention Regarding the Regime of the Straits, Soviet Note.