In a significant development regarding defense relations, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey announced an easing of U.S. sanctions on the country’s defense sector, especially since Donald Trump took office. Speaking to reporters after returning from a European summit, Erdogan highlighted a noticeable shift in the approach to U.S. sanctions legislation, specifically the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
Erdogan referred to the U.S.-imposed sanctions, which were enacted in 2020 following Turkey’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile defense system. The sanctions were a notable point of contention, straining relations between the two NATO allies. The U.S. government had argued that the S-400 system compromised the security of its own military assets, leading to Turkey’s removal from the F-35 program to prevent potential Russian access to sensitive technologies related to the stealth fighter.
During his remarks, Erdogan emphasized that the dynamics had changed under Trump’s leadership, noting improved communication with both Trump and his appointee to Ankara, Tom Barrack. He expressed optimism about a “more open, more constructive, and more sincere communication,” reiterating Turkey’s commitment to fostering positive relations. “I believe we will overcome the CAATSA process much faster,” Erdogan stated, asserting that there should be no defensive restrictions between the two nations, whom he described as “great NATO allies.”
Highlighting the importance of bilateral defense ties, Erdogan characterized Turkey’s partnership with the United States as crucial for regional and global stability. In a conversation earlier this year, he had discussed the necessity of finalizing a deal for the purchase of U.S. F-16 fighter jets and Turkey’s potential re-entry into the F-35 program.
Turkey’s efforts to modernize its air force extend beyond American aircraft, as discussions are also ongoing regarding the purchase of 40 Eurofighter Typhoons produced by a consortium of several European nations including Germany, Britain, Spain, and Italy. These developments come amid an evolving geopolitical landscape, underscoring the strategic significance of Turkey’s defense capabilities and its partnerships in the international arena.
