Attack on Turkey’s Aerospace Company: Deadly Blast Stuns Capital

Ankara, TurkeyWed Oct 23 2024
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In a shocking turn of events, armed attackers targeted the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) headquarters near Ankara on Wednesday. The deadly attack left four people dead and 14 injured, with three in critical condition. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the incident, stating that two attackers, a man and a woman, were also killed. The attack occurred during a high-profile defense fair, prompting TUSAS's general manager, Mehmet Demiroglu, to leave early and return to Ankara. TUSAS is a key player in Turkey’s defense industry, known for producing armed drones and fighter jets. Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler suggested that the militant Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) could be behind the attack. The PKK is considered a terrorist organization by Turkey, the EU, and the US. Guler stated that Turkey continues to punish PKK members, but they seem not to learn from their actions. The attack took place while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was in Russia for the BRICS summit. Erdogan condemned the attack, referring to it as a "vile" act against the country’s survival and defense initiatives. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also expressed support for Turkey, stating that NATO stands with the country. Experts warn that the attack will raise many questions in Turkey, as it is the first of its kind in several years. The timing is significant, as the government has been considering peace talks with the PKK. An investigation into the attack has been launched by the Turkish Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc. No group has claimed responsibility yet.