Erdogan Urges Trump to Reconsider US Sanctions on Turkey’s Defense Industry

President Erdogan of Turkey has called on President Trump to lift US sanctions on Turkey’s defense industry and to reinstate Turkey in the F-35 program. He also requested the sale of F-16 jets, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen relations with the US and navigate ties with Russia.

Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged United States President Donald Trump to reconsider the sanctions imposed on Turkey’s defense industry in 2020. During a phone call, Erdogan emphasized the necessity for the US to realign its stance with regard to Turkey’s national security interests and its reinstatement into the multi-national F-35 program, which focuses on next-generation military aircraft development.

Turkey is currently subject to the CAATSA sanctions since acquiring the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system, which also led to its expulsion from the F-35 program due to US security concerns. Additionally, Erdogan requested that President Trump finalize the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey, indicating a desire for restored military cooperation.

This appeal for stronger US-Turkey relations aligns with Turkey’s broader foreign policy strategy to strengthen ties with Western allies while maintaining a balance with Russia. Erdogan’s outreach reflects his aim to leverage the shifts in US foreign policy under Trump’s administration, particularly after feeling snubbed by the previous US leadership.

Erdogan expressed his support for Trump’s initiatives concerning mediation in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. They also addressed the situation in Syria, where Erdogan stressed the urgency of lifting sanctions and promoting regional stability, along with the critical need for the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland.

In summary, President Erdogan’s recent communication with President Trump highlights Turkey’s request to lift defense sanctions, restore participation in the F-35 program, and expedite the sale of F-16 fighter jets. Erdogan’s efforts reflect a strategic pivot in Turkish foreign policy aimed at reinforcing ties with Western allies while navigating relations with Russia. These discussions underscore Turkey’s position in regional stability and security issues.

Original Source: www.livemint.com