The atomic renaissance of Russia and Turkey during the turbulence of the international relations system

The purpose of the study. The article analyses the formation and development of the strategic partnership between Russia and Turkey in the field of nuclear energy and gives an example of the Akkuyu NPP project, as well as examines its strategic goals and significance for both countries. Results. As a result of the conducted research, the authors concluded that Russian-Turkish nuclear cooperation, initiated back in the 1970s, reached a strategic level in the 2010s due to the Akkuyu NPP project. For Russia, the project is a key instrument of foreign policy, allowing it to strengthen its influence, demonstrate the competitiveness of its nuclear technologies and ensure the utilization of industry enterprises. For Turkey, this is a strategic response to growing energy needs, allowing it to diversify energy sources, save on gas imports, and lay the foundation for national competence in the nuclear field. The uniqueness of the project lies in the “build–own–operate” (BOO) model used, which provides Russia with long-term operational control, and Turkey with technology transfer and personnel training. Despite external challenges, mutual interest and the successful implementation of the Akkuyu project create a solid foundation for further expansion of the nuclear alliance, turning nuclear energy into a stabilizing factor in bilateral relations.