Anatomy of a Crisis. Tensions in the Aegean Sea escalated in January 1997, after Cyprus confirmed the purchase of S-300 missiles from Russia. This poses a threat to Turkish air space along Turkey's southern coast, less than 70 kilometers away. Turkish forces already have rehearsed operations to destroy the missiles if they are deployed. Although such action could ignite a war between Greece and Turkey, Turkey's political leaders are reluctant to back down, particularly with parliamentary elections scheduled for April 1999.
Turkey agrees to demilitarize the island.
Neither appears likely. For its part, Russia has warned that any attack on Russian ships transporting the missiles would be considered an act of war. Clarifying U.S. Interests. Without neglecting important U.S.-Greek ties, U.S. policy must acknowledge Turkey's unique geostrategic position. A key bulwark against Soviet aggression during the Cold War, Turkey remains a vital bridge between Europe and the Middle East.