Turkish President Erdogan discussed Ukraine and Syria with U.S. President Trump, emphasizing Turkey’s support for ending the Ukraine conflict and urging cooperation in lifting Syrian sanctions. He also stressed the need for U.S. measures concerning counter-terrorism and defense collaborations, particularly regarding F-16 and F-35 programs.
On Sunday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan engaged in a telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, during which they deliberated on the war in Ukraine and the ongoing situation in Syria, as indicated by Erdogan’s office. Erdogan expressed Turkey’s endorsement of Trump’s initiatives aimed at halting the conflict in Ukraine and emphasized Turkey’s commitment to pursuing a “just and lasting peace.”
Erdogan underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts to alleviate sanctions on Syria, aimed at restoring stability and functionality within the new administration. He remarked that such actions would facilitate the safe return of Syrian nationals to their homeland, as per the official statement.
Furthermore, Turkey anticipates proactive measures from the United States concerning counter-terrorism efforts, particularly with respect to Turkey’s interests. There exists a disagreement regarding the U.S. alliance with a Syrian Kurdish militia, which Turkey classifies as a terrorist entity, highlighting tension between NATO allies.
Erdogan advocated for the removal of CAATSA sanctions, stressing the urgency to finalize Turkey’s F-16 procurement and reinstate its involvement in the F-35 program to advance defense industry collaboration with the United States. Turkey’s earlier acquisition of Russian S-400 air defense systems had resulted in U.S. sanctions and the termination of Turkey’s participation in the F-35 program in 2019.
The discussions between Presidents Erdogan and Trump reflect significant geopolitical interests, commonly focusing on stabilizing Syria, resolving the conflict in Ukraine, and enhancing defense cooperation. Turkey’s commitment to supporting initiatives for peace, while addressing sanctions on Syria and insisting on U.S. acknowledgment of its defense needs, are pivotal for future collaborations. The ongoing tensions regarding U.S. alignment with certain Kurdish militias further underline the complexities of NATO partnerships.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
