Turkey’s President Erdogan has requested that the U.S. lift sanctions on its defense industry and reinstate it in the F-35 project. He emphasized the need for a shift in U.S. policy towards Turkey’s security interests and sought the expediting of F-16 fighter jet sales. This outreach aims to recalibrate Turkey’s foreign relations amidst changing U.S. diplomatic stances.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has called upon the United States to reconsider the sanctions imposed on its defense sector in 2020. He specifically urged President Donald Trump to permit Turkey’s reinstatement in the multi-national F-35 initiative, which is focused on the development and production of next-generation military aircraft.
During a recent telephone conversation, Erdogan emphasized the need for a shift in U.S. policies that would take Turkey’s national security interests into account. Since 2020, Turkey has been facing sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) due to its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defense system. This procurement also led to Turkey’s removal from the F-35 program, citing U.S. national security concerns.
In addition, Erdogan requested that President Trump expedite the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey, highlighting a desire for a cooperative partnership with the U.S. This initiative is part of Turkey’s broader strategy to recalibrate its foreign relations, fostering closer ties with Western allies while balancing relations with Russia.
President Trump has notably influenced U.S. foreign policy, advocating for increased defense expenditure within the European Union while pursuing relations with Russia. Following a period of tension with the previous U.S. administration, Erdogan appears keen to leverage recent changes in Washington’s diplomatic stance.
Furthermore, Erdogan expressed support for Trump’s mediation efforts in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The dialogue between the two leaders also included discussions on Syria, where Erdogan stressed the importance of lifting sanctions to restore regional stability and facilitate the return of refugees.
In summary, Turkey’s President Erdogan is actively seeking to engage the U.S. by requesting a lifting of defense sanctions and reinstatement in the F-35 program. His outreach to President Trump reflects a strategic move to strengthen Turkey’s international relationships while balancing interests with Russia. Erdogan’s discussions also included critical topics like the Syria situation and the conflict in Ukraine, underscoring Turkey’s desire for a revised partnership with the U.S.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
