Turkish President Erdogan and U.S. President Trump discussed Ukraine and Syria via phone, emphasizing Turkey’s support for peace efforts and cooperation on sanctions. Erdogan called for U.S. consideration of Turkey’s interests in combating terrorism and urged the finalization of defense agreements, while criticizing U.S. alliances with Kurdish groups in Syria.
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan recently engaged in a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump where they discussed various geopolitical matters, most notably the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Erdogan expressed Turkey’s support for Trump’s initiatives aimed at facilitating a resolution to the war and emphasized Turkey’s commitment to achieving a “just and lasting peace” in the region.
Erdogan further highlighted the need for mutual cooperation in lifting sanctions on Syria to help restore stability and functionality within the Syrian administration. This action, according to Erdogan, is crucial for encouraging displaced Syrians to return to their homeland.
Additionally, Erdogan urged the United States to consider Turkey’s interests in the ongoing battle against terrorism, reiterating the importance of cooperation in this area. Notably, Turkey remains critical of the U.S. alliance with a Kurdish militia in Syria, which it views as a terrorist organization, deeming this relationship a betrayal of NATO partnerships.
Erdogan called for the termination of CAATSA sanctions, the finalization of Turkey’s F-16 procurement, and re-establishing Turkey’s participation in the F-35 program to foster defense cooperation between Turkey and the U.S. This follows Turkey’s previous challenges due to its acquisition of Russian S-400 air defense systems, which resulted in U.S. sanctions and Turkey’s removal from the F-35 program in 2019.
In summary, President Erdogan’s dialogue with President Trump underscored Turkey’s commitment to establishing peace in Ukraine and restoring stability in Syria. Erdogan’s call for lifting sanctions and addressing defense cooperation reflects Turkey’s strategic interests and concerns regarding U.S. military alliances. The ongoing collaboration between the two nations remains pivotal for addressing regional security challenges.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
