[90031] Unusual statement by a European MP: 'Turkey no longer needs the European Union'

Diplomatic tension: German MP comes to Turkey's defense

In a series of reports published today, June 19, 2026, an unusual statement by a German member of the European Parliament, Tomasz Froelich, made headlines. According to reports on the gdh channel, Froelich claimed that Turkey has reached a point where it no longer needs the European Union, and placed the responsibility for this situation on the shoulders of the European countries themselves.

Froelich, known for his positions criticizing EU institutions, declared that "Turkey does not need your moral lessons," thereby echoing long-standing criticism from elements in Turkey regarding European policy. According to the report on the gdh channel, the MP emphasized that the growing disconnect between the sides is a direct result of the European approach toward Ankara.

The reports aggregated from channels such as Son Dakika Haberler Gündem, Son Dakika Haberler Türkiye, and Askeri Operasyon Haberleri highlight the importance attributed to this statement in the internal Turkish discourse. The Turkish channels, which generally tend to present positions emphasizing national sovereignty and Turkey's independence in the international arena, gave extensive resonance to Froelich's words as validation of their claims against external interference.

As of the time of writing, no official response has been recorded from European Union institutions to Froelich's remarks, but the discourse surrounding the issue continues to gain traction in the Turkish media.