"Meow & Release": A Cat Named "Lokum" Delights the Press Corps at NATO Summit, in Ankara

türkçe links to original Turkish article

(Hürriyet Newspaper, 8 July 2026)

         "...and make sure you spell my name right!"

'Lokum' (Turkish delight candy), an Ankara cat cared for at the 

Presidential Library, became the center of attention for foreign press 

members covering the 36th NATO Leaders Summit.

The 36th NATO Leaders Summit continues with sessions held at the 

Presidential Complex. 'Lokum,' one of approximately 50 cats (!) cared 

for at the Presidential Library, was brought up to the floor where 

foreign press members are located.

The Ankara cat, with its charming movements, white fur, and bicolored 

eyes, became the center of attention for the foreign press.

"She'll stay till she gets bored." (!)

Ayşegül Korkmaz, the veterinarian who bred 'Lokum', said, "Our cat is 

an Ankara cat and is known abroad as the 'Turkish Ankara cat'. She lives

in the Presidential Complex and was brought here to be introduced to the 

press to promote Ankara.  She always lives here and is here today to 

represent herself and Ankara. She will stay here as long as we have guests; 

but she will leave when she gets bored." (!)

Trump got jealous...