Religious Calendars and New Year Traditions in Turkey….

Orthodox Christians traditionally exchange gifts on St. Nicholas Day (19 December) or during the New Year celebrations. While they use the Gregorian calendar in daily life, their religious observances follow the Julian calendar. Throughout history, the timing of New Year celebrations has varied across cultures. Ancient Armenians marked the New Year on 21 March, during the spring equinox, in the month of Areg—the first month of the Armenian calendar. Today, New Year’s Day is celebrated on 1 January. In contrast, the Jewish calendar observes Rosh Hashanah, which begins at sunset and falls on the evening of 29 September. In the Christian world, calendar differences influence the dates of religious holidays. Christians who follow the Gregorian calendar celebrate Epiphany on 6 January, whereas those adhering to the Julian calendar observe it on 19 January. On Büyükada, Prince islands in Turkey, Christmas celebrations are limited to the San Pasifico Latin Church. Protestants and members of other denominations often avoid entering Catholic churches, possibly due to a fear of being influenced by the grandeur of the interiors. However, as secular Turks, we have no such concerns. We light candles, open our hands in prayer, and wish for the well-being of our loved ones according to our own beliefs. Christmas in the Shadow of Lights Last night’s pre-Christmas service at St. Anthony’s Church in Beyoğlu was captivating. Arabic Christmas hymns played inside, and just last week, İstiklal Avenue was vibrant with colourful festive lights, creating an uplifting atmosphere. However, this week, for reasons dictated by an unknown political decision, the street decorations were abruptly removed, dampening the festive mood. In contrast, areas like Kadıköy Market, Bahariye, Caddebostan, Bağdat Avenue, Kartal, and Pendik remain adorned with sparkling street decorations. Intercultural Tolerance The interference of religious rituals with innocent festivities is often a topic of debate. For instance, in Magdeburg, Germany, a Saudi doctor misused the freedoms unavailable in his own country to create a public disturbance, serving as a thought-provoking example. Such incidents underscore the importance of intercultural harmony and mutual respect. Büyükada, 22 December 2024

Turkey’s Energy Security and the Impact of the Ukraine War

The Ukraine war has significantly influenced Turkey’s energy security policies and its relations with Russia. Turkey relies on Russia for approximately 40% of its annual natural gas demand, which totals 56 billion cubic meters. This dependency creates economic and political vulnerabilities in Turkey’s energy security framework. As of 2024, the price of Russian natural gas stands at $527 per 1,000 cubic meters, while in the U.S. domestic market, the same amount costs approximately $105. This price disparity has substantially increased Turkey’s import costs. Proposal for Barter Trade To address payment challenges arising from sanctions linked to the Ukraine war, Turkey should explore alternative trade models. Hungary’s approach—exporting agricultural and industrial products to Russia in exchange for natural gas through a barter system—serves as a viable example. Similarly, Turkey could adopt this method by exporting agricultural goods, white goods, and automobiles, thereby offsetting its energy costs. Additionally, given the difficulties in repatriating earnings from Turkish construction projects in Russia, converting these revenues into oil imports and using them to pay domestic contractors could be a practical solution. This approach would alleviate financial bottlenecks in energy trade and establish a more sustainable balance in the sector. Diversification and Domestic Production Ensuring diversity in energy sources and prioritizing domestic production are crucial for enhancing Turkey’s bargaining power in global energy markets. Investments in renewable energy could reduce dependency on imports and bolster Turkey’s energy independence. Moreover, being a competitive player in the energy market requires robust financial strategies and diversified energy resources. Innovative policies and efficient use of domestic resources will enable Turkey to build a more resilient energy infrastructure and strengthen its security against global crises. Büyükada, 13 December 2024 Kadıyoran

The Renovated Notre Dame Cathedral: History, Faith, and Diplomacy….

Notre Dame de Paris, located on the Île de la Cité island in the 4th district of Paris, is a medieval Catholic cathedral considered one of the most impressive examples of French Gothic architecture. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this structure represents the pinnacle of the Gothic style with its architectural innovations, flying buttresses, massive rose windows, and sculptures adorned with natural elements. It also draws attention with its three great pipe organs and enormous bells. Construction of the cathedral began in 1163 under Archbishop Maurice de Sully, and it was largely completed by 1260, undergoing various modifications in the centuries that followed. However, the great fire of 2019 led to its restoration. Finally, in 2024, Notre Dame reopened its doors, reclaiming its place on the world stage as a center where history, faith, and culture meet. Visitors from Different Faiths and Reservations Notre Dame is not only a fascinating site for Catholics but also for people of different faiths and cultural tourists. However, some non-Catholic Christians may have reservations about entering such religious buildings, either due to concerns about their faith being influenced or fears of questioning their own denomination in the face of the cathedral’s grandeur. Nevertheless, these structures should not be viewed solely as places of worship but also as cultural treasures. An example of this perspective is seen in the participation of Jewish-Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Protestant U.S. President Donald Trump in the cathedral’s reopening ceremony, highlighting the cultural and diplomatic significance of Notre Dame. In addition to Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Prince William of the United Kingdom also attended the opening. The Importance of Cultural Experiences Notre Dame, one of the essential stops for any visit to Paris, has also been a cultural discovery point for me. While attending an energy fair in Paris, I was struck by the deep admiration I felt when I saw the cathedral still in its restoration phase. Religious structures are not limited to worship; they are places that enrich the human experience culturally and historically. Diplomacy and Reunion The reopening of Notre Dame is not only a success in restoration but also a significant diplomatic event. World leaders gathered at the opening ceremony, finding an opportunity to strengthen ties between countries through art and culture. Such events once again demonstrate how art and history serve as bridges for international dialogue and cooperation. The Rebirth of a Cultural Heritage The renovation and reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral is not only a great achievement for France but also a significant development for global cultural heritage. These structures carry the marks of the past into the present, offering a common ground for people of different faiths and cultures to come together. The renovated Notre Dame continues to offer humanity an unforgettable legacy as a platform of diplomacy intertwined with history and faith. In a place like Büyükada, where people of every faith and denomination live together, it is perfectly natural and beautiful to witness the peaceful coexistence of Armenian Orthodox, Catholic, Jewish, Sunni, and Alevi beliefs. Büyükada, December 10, 2024

BRICS and the US Dollar.

A New Era in Global Trade…. Around 40% of Turkey’s annual natural gas demand of 56 billion cubic metres is supplied by Russia. However, payment disruptions caused by the Ukraine war and US sanctions have created significant risks for Turkey’s energy security, making the search for alternative supply routes a necessity. Despite US sanctions on Iran, Turkey has been able to continue its natural gas payments to Iran under temporary exemptions. Nonetheless, reliance on the US dollar increases both operational and political risks. Turkey’s potential membership in BRICS faces objections due to India’s strained relations with Pakistan, but it is anticipated that this issue may be resolved over time. Trump and BRICS Nations’ Move Against the Dollar The 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump, responded sharply to BRICS nations’ efforts to reduce their dependence on the US dollar. Trump stated, “BRICS countries should neither create a new BRICS currency nor replace the dollar with any other currency. If they do, these nations will face 100% tariffs and exclusion from the US market,” defending the dollar’s dominant position in global trade. In contrast, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasised that moving away from the dollar has become a necessity due to US sanctions. He remarked, “We were not against the dollar, but our use of it has been blocked. We have no choice but to seek alternatives. When a country is excluded from the global banking system, it must find other ways,” pointing to the US as the main instigator of this process. BRICS and the US: Economic Rivalry The combined gross domestic product (GDP) of BRICS countries has now closely approached that of the United States. However, BRICS has a notable advantage: a population of 3.5 billion, which is ten times the size of the US. This demographic strength positions BRICS as a formidable alternative in global trade. The idea of BRICS establishing a common currency has the potential to disrupt the US dollar-centric economic order. The meritocratic, long-standing autocratic governance in BRICS countries presents a contrast to the democratic structure of the US, reflecting differing approaches in international cooperation. A Turning Point in Global Trade BRICS nations’ efforts to develop an alternative to the dollar and the US’s attempts to maintain its dominance mark a critical turning point in global trade. Energy-dependent countries like Turkey will need to reassess their strategic positioning in this evolving landscape. If BRICS succeeds in creating an alternative system to the dollar, it could not only impact the US economy but also fundamentally alter trade dynamics for countries like Turkey. Decisions made during this period could lay the foundation for a new global economic and political order. Büyükada, 5 December 2024 Kadıyoran

The Destruction of Early Republican Architecture in Ankara

Unbelievable things are happening in Ankara. Many valuable buildings from the early Republican period, which witnessed the founding years of the Turkish Republic, are sadly being demolished one by one. In their place, either empty parking lots or new structures with no architectural or historical connection to the past are being constructed. The Etibank building was one of the first to go. This structure, reflecting the modern architectural style of the Republican era, was torn down, leaving behind an empty parking lot. At the Opera Square parking area, the Melike Hatun Mosque, inspired by Ottoman-era designs, was built. Meanwhile, the magnificent İller Bank building next to it shared the same fate and was demolished. Today, only a temporary shack occupies its former location. But it didn’t stop there. The Ministry of Public Works and Settlement building was also torn down, leaving yet another parking lot in its wake. There are now plans to build a mosque on that site. Similarly, the beautiful DSİ (State Hydraulic Works) building was demolished, replaced once again by an empty parking lot. One of the most distressing losses is the destruction of the Ministry of Public Works building, designed by the renowned Austrian architect Clemens Holzmeister. This structure was not merely a building but a monument embodying the modernization ideals of the Republic. Now, this historical masterpiece is being erased. The Yargıtay (Supreme Court) building is also on the brink of demolition. The Saraçoğlu Neighbourhood appears to have been spared for now. However, even one of the symbolic structures of the Republic, the Çankaya Presidential Mansion, has been left neglected and abandoned to decay. The architectural treasures of the early Republican period are disappearing one by one, replaced by empty parking lots or soulless, nondescript structures. This is not just a loss of architecture; it is also the destruction of a historical and cultural identity. These buildings represent more than bricks and mortar; they are living testaments to a bygone era, reflecting the spirit of a time when the Republic’s ideals of modernization and development were at their peak. Preserving this heritage is vital not only for Ankara but also for Turkey’s cultural memory and identity. Yet, it seems these structures are not seen as valuable monuments but as disposable entities, torn down without a clear plan for their replacement. This is a grave injustice to our history and culture. Ankara 4 January 2025

Why Are Electricity Prices Constantly Rising in Türkiye?

An Economic and Structural Assessment within the 2025 Energy Outlook (Article – April 2025) The consecutive increases in electricity prices in Türkiye are not only straining household budgets but also significantly impacting industrial production and economic stability. These hikes are driven by a range of structural factors, from supply-demand imbalances and foreign currency-based cost increases to import dependency in energy production and taxation policies. As of 2025, the current state of the energy sector offers important insights into the underlying causes of these price hikes. 1. High-Cost Energy Sources: Dependency on Natural Gas Approximately 28% of Türkiye’s total electricity generation comes from combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) plants. While these plants are known for their efficiency, their reliance on imported natural gas makes them a major contributor to rising energy costs. Since Türkiye primarily imports gas from countries like Russia and Azerbaijan in foreign currency, fluctuations in exchange rates directly inflate electricity production costs. 2. The Declining Role of Coal and Import-Based Generation As of 2025, coal’s share in Türkiye’s electricity generation has dropped to around 20%. Domestic lignite plants are under pressure due to rehabilitation needs and environmental regulations, while imported coal plants are becoming economically unsustainable due to rising exchange rates and looming carbon tax obligations. These factors are driving up production costs and paving the way for further price increases. 3. Insufficient Renewable Energy Investment Although there has been noticeable growth in renewable sources such as wind and solar (installed capacity: ~34 GW), these investments have not yet reached a level that can support baseload demand. Moreover, financial and bureaucratic challenges in YEKA and unlicensed projects continue to hinder the rapid expansion of renewable capacity, forcing reliance on more expensive alternatives to ensure supply security. 4. Exchange Rate Pressure and Energy Trade Policies While a large portion of electricity production costs is denominated in foreign currency, electricity is sold to the domestic market in Turkish Lira. This mismatch drives energy producers to frequently apply to the Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK) for price adjustments, which are then directly reflected in consumer bills. 5. Rising Demand and Peak Hour Consumption With economic recovery, both industrial and residential electricity demand is visibly rising. In particular, summer air conditioning use pushes consumption to peak levels. Meeting this demand often requires activating costly natural gas plants, which further fuels electricity price hikes. 6. Carbon Tax and the EU Green Deal Risk Coal-fired power plants are set to face substantial costs under the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which will come into effect in 2026. Türkiye’s lack of preparation for this transition poses an additional internal cost pressure that could trigger further electricity price increases. 7. Reduction of State Subsidies In 2023 and 2024, the government significantly scaled back energy subsidies, shifting the burden directly onto consumers. This move marked a transition to a pricing model more reflective of actual production costs. Not a Temporary Crisis, but a Structural Issue The ongoing electricity price hikes in Türkiye are not merely the result of temporary crises but reflect a deeper, structural transformation. Türkiye’s dependence on imported energy, carbon regulation pressures, currency volatility, and insufficient renewable investment are all contributing to a persistent upward trend in electricity costs. A sustainable solution lies in a long-term energy policy based on domestic, environmentally friendly, and resilient resources. References: • EPDK 2025 Energy Balance Report • Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources 2024 Strategy Document • TMMOB 2024 Energy Outlook • TÜREB 2025 Projections Ankara 4 APRIL 2025

The 2025 Jubilee Year And The Significance Of The Holy Door At The Vatican – OpEd

On 23rd March 2025, we arrived at Rome Fiumicino Airport from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen on Pegasus flight PC 1223. Passport control was quick. After collecting our luggage, we took the Leonardo Express train to Termini Central Station. The ticket cost €14 per person, and the journey took about 20 minutes. At Termini train station, we took the metro to Ottaviano station and walked to our hotel. We unlocked the entrance door via an internet connection, crossed the courtyard, and took the elevator up. Inside, we found a letter with our room key, a welcome note, and door codes. The next day, we visited the Vatican and passed through the Porta Sancta (Holy Door). The city is packed with Catholic pilgrims from all over the world. Due to the 25th Jubilee Year, Rome is exceptionally crowded and lively. We had previously visited the Vatican and walked through the Holy Door during the 2000 Jubilee Year. Hoping to repeat this experience 25 years later, we planned our trip for 23–28 March. The Meaning of the Jubilee Year and Porta Sancta In the Christian world, Jubilee Years are considered times of spiritual renewal and forgiveness. These sacred years, proclaimed by the Catholic Church, gain significance through pilgrimage and the remission of sins. The Porta Sancta, or Holy Door, is one of the most important symbols of this spiritual journey. Located in St. Peter’s Basilica, the Holy Door is only opened during Jubilee Years. This tradition was initiated by Pope Boniface VIII in 1300. Originally celebrated once every 100 years, Jubilee Years are now held every 25 years. On Christmas Day, the Pope ceremonially opens the door with a golden hammer, inviting believers to God’s mercy. The opening of the Holy Door symbolizes a return to God and forgiveness. Pilgrims pass through it to seek purification from past sins and spiritual renewal. The theme of the 2025 Jubilee Year, “Fraternity and Hope,” calls on all Christians to unite in solidarity. As a tangible expression of this message, Porta Sancta will serve as a gateway of peace and hope for millions of pilgrims. With modern technology, the 2025 ceremonies will reach billions worldwide. Passing through the Holy Door is not just a physical act but a profound spiritual experience. For believers, it signifies absolution, a fresh start, and a reaffirmation of their faith. Jubilee Years also serve as calls for peace and reconciliation, providing opportunities to end wars, combat poverty, and foster unity among communities. As a symbol of these ideals, Porta Sancta stands as a bridge bringing believers and all of humanity together. Rome, 28 March 2025 written by Haluk Direskeneli

“Clean Coal”: An Oxymoron in the Turkish Context

Today, there is an increasingly tense conflict between energy production and environmental sustainability. Within this context, the concept of “clean coal” is often regarded as an oxymoron—especially when considering the environmental damage caused by coal. Although coal still holds a significant share in global energy production, the claim that it can be used in a “clean” manner remains highly controversial, both technically and politically. In the case of Turkey, this concept represents not only a contradiction, but also a convenient façade for evading environmental and social responsibilities. The Reality and Implementation Issues of Clean Coal Technologies Theoretically, “clean coal” refers to thermal power plants equipped with advanced filtration systems—such as electrostatic precipitators (ESP), flue gas desulfurization (FGD) systems—and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. The aim of these technologies is to minimize harmful emissions like sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), particulate matter, and carbon dioxide (CO₂). However, in practice, these systems in Turkey are often not installed, prove to be technically inadequate, or—even when installed—are not operated. The main reason is their high energy consumption and operational costs. Flue gas treatment systems like FGD, for instance, consume 8–10% of the electricity generated by a thermal power plant just to run themselves. Investors often view this as “lost” energy, which leads to these systems being left unused or entirely bypassed. Balancing Economic Profit and Environmental Harm Energy producers generally prioritize maximizing profit at the lowest possible cost over fulfilling environmental obligations. This turns “clean coal” technologies into mere marketing tools, with little to no actual implementation. Many coal plants in Turkey have been operating for years in violation of environmental standards, taking advantage of temporary exemptions and a lack of proper oversight. In the Turkish context, the term “clean coal” is not just a technical debate; it is also an ethical, environmental, and political issue. The absence or inactivity of essential treatment systems at power plants deepens environmental destruction and poses a serious threat to public health. As long as energy is produced from coal, the term “clean” remains inconsistent with both reality and science. In Turkey, “clean coal” is not only an oxymoron—it is a dangerous illusion. Ankara 4 May 2025

Pouring Billions into Scrap Power Plants: Whose Interests Are Being Served?

March has come and gone, but its financial impact still lingers. Turkey’s public electricity transmission company, TEİAŞ, recently announced that it paid a staggering 1.894 billion TL to 32 coal and natural gas power plants under the capacity mechanism. Nearly 2 billion lira — an enormous figure. Even more troubling is the fact that most of these plants are outdated, inefficient, and essentially scrap. The harsh reality is that the bulk of this support — 1.343 billion TL — went to natural gas plants. The remaining 551 million TL was directed to coal plants that pollute the environment and worsen Turkey’s carbon footprint. And what for? Just to keep them on standby in case they’re needed. But the cost of maintaining this so-called “reserve” capacity is becoming alarmingly high. So, the question must be asked: Who is Turkey really footing this massive bill for? Are ordinary citizens seeing lower electricity bills? No. Are carbon emissions going down? Quite the opposite. Is there significant investment in new, clean energy technologies? Unfortunately, only a fraction of funds go there. So why — and with what rationale — is this money being funneled into outdated, inefficient power plants? These payments under the capacity mechanism are, in truth, the price of past policy failures in the energy sector. And it’s the public that silently shoulders the cost every month. If even a portion of these billions were redirected toward solar, wind, energy storage, and efficiency, Turkey could develop a far more sustainable, independent energy system. Let’s speak plainly: these scrap plants shouldn’t be kept alive. They should be shut down, and their parts recycled. The nation’s resources should go not into the rusting machines of the past, but into the clean technologies of the future. As taxpayers, we all have both the right and the responsibility to ask: Where is this 2 billion lira going — and who is really benefiting? Ankara 4- May 2025

The Impending Marmara Earthquake and the Reality of Turkey’s Earthquake Resilience

written by Haluk Direskeneli The minor earthquake (6.1 Reichter) that occurred on April 23, 2025, offered a brief moment of relief for the people of Istanbul and surrounding areas. However, experts emphasize that this was not the earthquake we’ve been expecting in the Marmara region—on the contrary, it may have intensified the stresses that could lead to the much-feared major rupture. The reality is clear: a major earthquake in the Marmara Sea is inevitable. Istanbul is the heart of Turkey’s economy. A major earthquake in this megacity—home to both production and finance—would not only cripple Istanbul but could bring the entire country to its knees. This is not just a natural disaster risk; it is a matter of national security. If the economy stalls and production halts, both Turkey’s economic and political independence could suffer significantly. Experts have made it clear that stress is accumulating in the Marmara region, and that these smaller tremors might be precursors to a much larger rupture. There remains an unbroken 40 to 50 km segment of the Kumburgaz Fault. If it connects with the Adalar Fault, the potential for a magnitude 7.5 earthquake becomes very real. Scientific data, including analysis of the historic 1766 and 1912 earthquakes, supports this scenario. The energy beneath the Marmara is building—and that pressure will eventually find release. Earthquake science is not based on personal opinions; it is grounded in data, analysis, and international academic standards. A claim can only be considered scientific if it is backed by methodology, evidence, peer review, and publication history. Otherwise, it is not science—it is speculation. Turkey’s past, particularly in the wake of the 1999 earthquake, is filled with missed opportunities. Yet since then, national and international research has clearly outlined the risks facing Marmara. So what must be done? The answer is clear: earthquake-resilient cities must be built. This means not just strengthening buildings, but also making governance, infrastructure, the public, and the economy resilient. This transformation, outlined in six key pillars by the scientific community, requires cooperation between national and local authorities. Infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and factories are important—but ensuring public safety must come first. Countries like Japan and Taiwan have demonstrated that it’s possible to survive major earthquakes with minimal casualties. This has only been achieved through years of education, investment, and unwavering commitment. Turkey must adopt the same mindset and act with urgency—transforming not just Istanbul, but all its cities, with determination and continuity. This is not a task for boardrooms; it requires 24/7 fieldwork, public engagement, and cross-sector collaboration. An earthquake may be inevitable—but destruction doesn’t have to be. Through scientific truth, careful planning, and national mobilization, Turkey can prepare for the Marmara earthquake. If we start today, we can protect tomorrow. Ankara 7 May 2025

Electricity Exports to Syria: Opportunity or Risk?

Recently, Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, made a noteworthy announcement: Turkey plans to triple its electricity exports to Syria. As part of this initiative, a new transmission line with a capacity of 500 megawatts (later to increase to 1000 MWe) will be commissioned between Birecik and Aleppo. Given Turkey’s installed electricity capacity (2025) of over 117,000 megawatts, supplying this amount of power does not present a technical challenge. However, this issue extends far beyond technical feasibility—it carries significant economic and political implications. How Will Syria Pay for This Electricity? War-torn for over a decade, Syria remains in a dire economic state. Its infrastructure is decimated, and political instability persists. Under such conditions, it’s highly questionable whether Syria can consistently finance such a large-scale energy import. Previous payment collection problems remain fresh in memory. What happens if payments are not made? Either electricity exports will be suspended, or Turkish taxpayers will shoulder the cost. In effect, we might end up sending free electricity to Syria, which could place further pressure on domestic electricity prices. Is There a Formal Agreement? What About Transparency? With such a large-scale export plan made public, one of the first questions that arises is: Is there a formal agreement with Syria? If so, why haven’t the technical and financial details been disclosed to the public? If not, are we embarking on a project without legal and contractual grounding? These uncertainties complicate energy policymaking and raise concerns about transparency. And Then There’s the Cost As of 2025, the cost of electricity production in Turkey varies by energy source: natural gas, imported coal, lignite, hydro, solar, wind, geothermal, and nuclear—all have different costs. On average, the production cost ranges from $0.07 to $0.10 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Let’s assume the 500 MW line operates for 8,000 hours annually: 500 MW x 8,000 hours = 4 million MWh Average cost: $0.10/kWh → Annual cost: $400 million This means the electricity Turkey plans to send to Syria would cost approximately $400 million per year. Whether and how much of this amount will be recovered remains uncertain. Diplomacy Is Important, But Economics Shouldn’t Be Ignored Turkey is justified in using energy exports as a tool of foreign policy. Aspiring to be a regional power requires it. However, this ambition must be grounded in economic reality. Strategic objectives must be pursued with transparency and financial accountability. Otherwise, actions taken today under the banner of diplomacy may become tomorrow’s financial burden for the public. Our energy policy should extend a helping hand to our neighbors while also safeguarding the rights, efforts, and taxes of Turkish citizens. Ankara, May 15, 2025

Trump’s Middle East Marathon.

Diplomacy or a Power Spectacle? by Haluk Direskeneli In May 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump embarked on a whirlwind three-day tour of the Middle East, visiting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The tightly packed trip, with each visit lasting just a day, stood out for its intense pace, heightened security, and major economic agreements. Accompanied by Air Force One, leading American CEOs, and a large press corps, Trump turned this journey into more than just a diplomatic mission—it became a high-profile economic and media spectacle. At every stop, Trump was greeted by heads of state who, as graduates of the British Sandhurst Military Academy, spoke flawless English, ensuring seamless communication. The welcoming ceremonies, complete with traditional national dress, showcased the region’s signature hospitality and grandeur, underscoring the symbolic weight of the visit. Yet behind the pomp and pageantry lay the real business: Trump signed deals for aircraft and arms sales, secured multi-billion-dollar investment pledges for the U.S., and engaged in close talks with regional leaders over lavish dinners and strategic meetings. For the 78-year-old Trump, the demanding itinerary was also a physical challenge. Moments where he visibly struggled to keep his eyes open—likely due to jetlag—did not go unnoticed by the media. Still, he maintained a determined posture, projecting a strong leadership image throughout. Combined with the extreme security measures, the trip sometimes felt more like a Hollywood production than a diplomatic mission. So, was this whirlwind tour a true diplomatic triumph, or a theatrical show of strength? Trump’s Middle East visit can be seen as a calculated move to reinforce the U.S.’s economic and strategic interests in the region. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE are vital players in global energy, defense, and trade. The agreements Trump secured with these countries are poised to directly benefit the American economy. However, the brief duration and tight schedule suggest the trip prioritized symbolic and economic goals over deep diplomatic engagement. The fluent English and Western military training of the region’s leaders reveal how strong the cultural and diplomatic bridges between the West and the Middle East have become. Yet, the visit also revived Trump’s signature “America First” narrative. The grand ceremonies and media coverage mirrored his distinctive leadership style: bold, extravagant, and results-driven. Trump’s Middle East tour showcased both the United States’ ambition to assert regional influence and his personal approach to leadership. Though packed with economic deals and symbolic gestures, the long-term consequences of this intense, three-day spectacle remain to be seen. One thing is certain—Trump once again redefined diplomacy in his own terms: fast, flashy, and open to debate. Ankara, May 16, 2025

The Case Against Coal Is Clear.

No Financing, No Reserves, No Public Support Left – OpEd by Haluk Direskeneli At the recent 5th International Clean Coal Technologies and National Energy Value Summit, officials argued that coal power plants could still be a viable solution. However, current data clearly shows that this perspective no longer aligns with technical or economic realities. No Financing for New Plants International financial institutions have stopped funding fossil fuel projects. In Turkey, large domestic banks are also steering clear of coal investments due to environmental standards. While some continue to call for support from local banks, this is now just wishful thinking. Without financing, there can be no project. Turkish Coal: Low Energy, High Cost Turkey’s coal reserves have low calorific value, meaning more fuel must be burned, resulting in higher carbon emissions and greater costs for environmental technologies. Complying with modern regulations requires expensive systems such as FGD (flue gas desulfurization) and ESP (electrostatic precipitators). Burning this coal can end up costing more than imported natural gas. Reserves Are Depleting, Investments Don’t Pay Off Coal reserves are dwindling. Exploration and development of new sites are costly and yield low returns. Rehabilitating existing plants also requires billions in investment, which are not recouped as coal-fired electricity is losing ground in the energy market. Public Support Is Waning Public sentiment is shifting away from coal. With growing awareness of air pollution, water use, and health risks, environmental consciousness is on the rise. Local resistance is intensifying, and lawsuits against power plants are increasing. The rhetoric of “social benefit” no longer aligns with reality. A Realistic Energy Policy: A Future Focused on Renewables Coal investments are often justified in the name of energy independence, but true independence lies in transitioning to domestic, clean resources like solar and wind. Areas such as battery storage, energy efficiency, and green hydrogen offer far more sustainable opportunities. Building new coal power plants is no longer viable—technically, economically, or socially. Energy policy should be guided by facts, not fantasies. Turkey’s energy future is not in coal, but in a smart and sustainable transformation. Ankara 17- May 2025

Engineering Intuition and the Anticipated Great Istanbul Earthquake

Engineering intuition refers to an engineer’s ability to solve complex engineering problems by leveraging experience and knowledge. Beyond theoretical education, practical applications and accumulated experience significantly contribute to developing this intuition over time. Engineering projects are often fraught with uncertainties, where conventional calculation methods may fall short. In such cases, engineering intuition enables engineers to understand intricate systems, anticipate potential risks, and devise effective solutions. This skill, honed over time, is critical for success in engineering practices. For a newly graduated engineer, confidence in the accuracy of calculations is not guaranteed. You perform calculations but cannot always be certain of their precision. Today, as electric vehicle charging and battery issues dominate discussions, alternative solutions like hydrogen energy are also being explored. We have ideas about the future of thermal power plants, but how much of this is grounded in accurate information? Experienced engineers possess "intuition" that helps assess whether certain applications are feasible. Is a structural profile suitable for the load it must bear? In a city at high seismic risk, like Istanbul, is it prudent to continue constructing column-beam reinforced concrete buildings? Why, for decades, have Japan and the United States used steel lattice structures for skyscrapers, while all skyscrapers in the Istanbul Financial Center, except for the slightly more expensive steel-structured Central Bank building, were built using traditional column-beam reinforced concrete? In a potential major earthquake, reinforced concrete buildings unable to withstand lateral loads are at risk of inevitable collapse. In Turkish universities, only reinforced concrete construction techniques are taught, yet in earthquake-prone regions, buildings should utilize steel lattice structures. Tunnel formwork systems are safer in this regard. Is it appropriate to construct runways on filled soil at the new Istanbul Airport? Have enough piles been driven beneath the runways? We will only know if the number of piles is sufficient during a potential earthquake. Who will evaluate the accuracy of investment decisions made by politicians, driven by fleeting ideas or uninformed political motives, such as those conceived during a helicopter flyover? Ankara, 18 May 2025