The foreign ministry condemned on Thursday Germany’s decision to accept asylum applications of some former military personnel affiliated with the Gülenist Terror Group (FETÖ) following the deadly July 15 failed coup attempt, saying that Germany has disregarded democratic principles by welcoming coup perpetrators.
In a statement, the foreign ministry “condemned regretfully” Germany for putting bilateral relations at risk.
“Germany’s decision [to welcome coup perpetrators] despite all evidence proving their FETÖ-links contradicts the spirit of alliance and damages multidimensional relations” the foreign ministry said.
The ministry urged Germany to review its decision, which contradicts cooperation in defense and security fields and urged the country to support Turkey’s struggle against FETÖ and other terrorist groups.
Led by U.S.-based imam Fetullah Gülen, FETÖ sought to topple the Turkish government and seize power on July 15 through a military coup and impose martial law.
The attempt was prevented by military troops loyal to the government, along with police units and millions of Turkish citizens in favor of democracy.
In total 248 people, mostly civilians, were killed by pro-coup soldiers, while over 2,000 people were injured.
