Erdogan and Trump Discuss Ukraine, Syria, and Defense Cooperation

Turkish President Erdogan discussed key defense and foreign policy issues with U.S. President Trump, including efforts to end the Ukraine war and stabilize Syria. Erdogan emphasized Turkey’s commitment to peace, the importance of lifting sanctions on Syria, and the need for U.S. support regarding Turkey’s defense procurement and addressing terrorism.

On Sunday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan engaged in a telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, where they addressed the imperative of concluding the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and restoring stability in Syria. Erdogan expressed Turkey’s commitment to support Trump’s efforts, emphasizing the pursuit of a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine.

During the discussion, Erdogan highlighted the significance of collaborating to lift sanctions on Syria, which, he argued, would aid in stabilizing the region, making the new administration viable, and facilitating the return of displaced Syrians. The statement underscored the mutual benefits that would arise from such actions.

Turkey expects the U.S. to consider its interests in counterterrorism efforts, particularly in regard to the involvement of a Syrian Kurdish militia in the fight against the Islamic State, which Turkey categorizes as a terrorist entity. This alliance has been a point of contention, with Turkey asserting that the U.S. actions constitute a betrayal of a NATO ally.

Erdogan also addressed the need for the United States to terminate CAATSA sanctions and finalize Ankara’s purchase of F-16 jets, as well as to re-integrate Turkey into the F-35 program. The sanctions were previously imposed due to Turkey’s acquisition of Russian S-400 air defense systems, which led to Turkey’s exclusion from the F-35 initiative in 2019.

In summary, the conversation between Presidents Erdogan and Trump focused on critical issues such as the resolution of the Ukraine conflict, stabilization in Syria, and defense cooperation between the U.S. and Turkey. Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s commitment to a peaceful resolution in Ukraine and emphasized the necessity of lifting sanctions on Syria. Furthermore, he called for an end to CAATSA sanctions, urging mutual cooperation in defense matters while highlighting ongoing tensions concerning U.S. alliances in the region.

Original Source: www.usnews.com