Syria continues to be the source of latent tensions between the two countries, but it is not the only problem between Ankara and Moscow. Turkey is also unhappy with developments in Ukraine, and particularly in Crimea, where the Tatars — who are closely related to Turks — represent a significant portion of the population but face serious pressures and are increasingly marginalized.
Erdogan told reporters at a press conference during his visit to Estonia in October that Turkey rejected steps taken by Moscow against leaders of the Crimean Tatar community. Meanwhile, Ankara continues to argue that Ukraine’s territorial integrity should be respected. But Turkey has taken no steps against Russia, and is also refraining from participating in the sanctions imposed on Moscow by the West.
Cyprus remains another sore point between Ankara and Moscow, especially the Greek Cypriot administration’s attempts to exploit massive offshore gas reserves. Turkey argues that Turkish Cypriots have a stake in these reserves, and says that they cannot be exploited until a comprehensive settlement is secured on Cyprus.