Russia’s war against Ukraine  has transformed the Black Sea into a key European security frontier, placing Turkey at the center of NATO’s strategy. On board a Turkish navy vessel, crews search for drifting sea mines that threaten vital shipping routes linking Europe and Asia.

Together with Romania and Bulgaria, Turkey helps detect and neutralize mines while safeguarding maritime trade. Ankara's control of the Bosporus and Dardanelles has also strengthened its strategic importance, making Turkey an increasingly influential NATO ally, despite its delicate balancing act between Ukraine and Russia.