FAQ: Erdogan could have easily avoided economic sanctions by releasing the pastor. Why is he insisting on this? Here is why.
Turkey's credit-driven economy had been sagging this year. To avoid crushing financial meltdown before the elections, he called for snap elections and easily won before the economic crisis hit. He is facing another local elections next year.
Erdogan's government now understands that there is no way to stop looming economic crisis. How to win an election in the midst of high unemployment, high inflation and melting local currency? Blame America.
Erdogan deliberately refused to cooperate in Pastor Brunson case and prompted U.S. sanctions. It is a perfect selling point in Turkey before elections: "We had robust economy. America didn't want it, imposed sanctions and triggered a financial crisis."
Erdogan is a master in anticipating future problems and laying the ground for a narrative that finds receptive audience in Turkey. What is a better way to explain an economic crisis than blaming America?
Share this Scrolly Tale with your friends.
A Scrolly Tale is a new way to read Twitter threads with a more visually immersive experience.
Discover more beautiful Scrolly Tales like this.