Erdogan and Trump Confer on Ukraine, Syria, and Defense Cooperation

Turkish President Erdogan spoke with U.S. President Trump about ending the Ukraine war and stabilizing Syria, advocating for lifting sanctions on Syria. Erdogan emphasized defense cooperation, urging the end of CAATSA sanctions and the completion of procurement processes concerning F-16s and F-35 re-participation.

On Sunday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan conversed with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine and the stabilization of Syria. President Erdogan expressed Turkey’s commitment to backing Trump’s efforts to achieve a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine, emphasizing Turkey’s support for direct initiatives aimed at ending the war.

Moreover, Erdogan highlighted the necessity of collective action to lift sanctions imposed on Syria, aiming to restore stability and facilitate the return of Syrian citizens to their homeland. The communiqué from Erdogan’s office underscored no less than the importance of U.S. cooperation in this endeavor to ensure the effectiveness of the new Syrian administration.

Erdogan also reiterated Turkey’s expectations for U.S. support in combatting terrorism, reflecting Turkey’s national interests in the region. Notably, the U.S. partnership with a Kurdish militia in Syria, which Turkey classifies as a terrorist organization, has been a major point of contention and a source of disappointment for Ankara.

Furthermore, Erdogan stressed the urgency of eliminating CAATSA sanctions, which affect Turkey’s defense capabilities. He also called for the completion of the F-16 procurement process and Turkey’s reinstatement in the F-35 program to advance defense cooperation with the United States. This comes in light of past sanctions related to Turkey’s acquisition of Russian S-400 air defense systems, which led to Turkey’s exclusion from the F-35 fighter jet program in 2019.

In conclusion, President Erdogan’s discussion with President Trump underscores Turkey’s strategic interests in addressing both the Ukraine conflict and the situation in Syria. Erdogan’s emphasis on lifting sanctions and enhancing defense cooperation reflects Turkey’s desire for a collaborative U.S.-Turkey relationship, especially concerning national security and regional stability. The dialogue signifies ongoing diplomatic efforts to navigate complex challenges in the region while addressing mutual concerns.

Original Source: www.usnews.com