The role of the Turkish straits in the security of the Black Sea within the framework of the Russia-Ukraine war

The Russia-Ukraine War has significantly affected the security dynamics in the Black Sea region and has brought the strategic importance of the Turkish Straits back to the forefront. This thesis examines the role of the Turkish Straits in Black Sea security, evaluating the implementation of the Montreux Convention during the war, the strategic interests of regional actors, and the impacts on international relations dynamics. Historically, the Turkish Straits have played a critical geopolitical transit point. The Montreux Convention, signed in 1936, granted Turkey control over the straits while regulating the passage of warships and establishing a balance of power in the Black Sea. This study analyzes the historical role of Montreux and its renewed importance in the context of the war. The impact of the Turkish Straits on security is examined from three key perspectives in the thesis: First, the powers granted to Turkey by the Montreux Convention and how these powers were applied during the war are discussed. Turkey's decision to limit the passage of Russian military ships, adhering to its neutrality policy, and the operation of Article 19 of Montreux throughout the conflict are evaluated. Secondly, the role of the Turkish Straits within the framework of international actors' strategic interests is analyzed. The thesis explores how Turkey has balanced its NATO membership responsibilities with its regional independence policy, evaluating Russia's efforts to maintain its dominance in the Black Sea, Ukraine's attempts to enhance its maritime security, and NATO's strategic priorities in the region. Lastly, the thesis addresses the economic role of the straits, considering the impact of the war on trade and energy security. The Grain Corridor Agreement illustrates Turkey's efforts to maintain a peaceful and stable environment in the Black Sea, underscoring the critical importance of the Turkish Straits in economic security. The findings of this thesis demonstrate that the Turkish Straits are an indispensable strategic asset for Black Sea security in military, diplomatic, and economic dimensions. By effectively using the powers granted by the Montreux Convention, Turkey has implemented its neutrality policy, further reinforcing the role of the Turkish Straits in international security. In conclusion, this thesis comprehensively evaluates the military, diplomatic, and economic effects of the Turkish Straits within the framework of the Russia-Ukraine War, highlighting the important role that Montreux could play in future crises.