Erdoğan gifts revolvers to NATO leaders; Estonia's PM must leave his behind

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan presented NATO leaders with an unexpected parting gift at a summit in Ankara: revolvers complete with ammunition. The unusual presents posed an immediate problem for Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal, who had to leave his gift behind in Turkey due to Estonian laws preventing him from bringing it into the country.

According to Reuters, each head of state attending the summit received an antique revolver from Erdoğan. The inclusion of ammunition indicated that these were not merely decorative souvenirs, adding a unique and potentially controversial element to the diplomatic exchange.

The gesture highlights a distinctive aspect of Turkish diplomacy, where symbolic gifts can carry significant historical or cultural weight. While the intent may have been to offer a memorable token of appreciation, the practicalities of international law and differing national regulations created an immediate hurdle for at least one leader.