US Weighs Lifting Turkey’s F-35 Ban Ahead of Erdogan Visit

President Donald Trump will meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the White House on Thursday. The high-stakes visit focuses on mending a key NATO alliance. A potential breakthrough on the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets is a central topic.

This is Erdogan’s first White House visit since 2019. The relationship has been strained by Turkey’s purchase of a Russian missile system. Trump has signaled a positive shift, suggesting a resolution is near.

From Ejection to Potential Re-entry for Turkish F-35s

The United States removed Turkey from the F-35 program during Trump’s first term. This action was a direct response to Ankara buying Russia’s S-400 air defense system. US officials feared the Russian system could compromise the stealth fighter’s security.

Turkey had already invested heavily in the program. Officials say a payment of $1.4 billion was made for the jets. The ban left Turkey without the advanced aircraft it sought.

Lifting the hold would mark a significant diplomatic victory for Erdogan. He recently called the ban unbecoming of a strategic partnership. The move would also realign defense cooperation between the two nations.

Navigating Complex Alliances and Human Rights Concerns

The Biden administration kept a distance from Erdogan over concerns about democratic backsliding. International observers note ongoing issues with human rights and freedom of expression in Turkey. These concerns remain a backdrop to the talks.

However, Trump views Erdogan as a crucial partner for ending conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Turkey positions itself as a stable mediator in the region. It maintains ties with both Ukraine and Russia, a rare diplomatic feat.

Tensions with Israel over the Gaza war add another layer of complexity. Erdogan has accused Israel of genocide, a claim the US and Israel reject. Trump has urged Israeli leaders to be reasonable with Ankara.

The White House meeting will test whether strategic interests can overcome deep-seated disagreements. The outcome of the F-35 talks will be a clear indicator of the alliance’s future direction.

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Q1: Why was Turkey banned from the F-35 program?

Turkey was removed after it purchased the Russian S-400 missile system. The US feared the system could gather sensitive data on the F-35’s capabilities. This data could potentially be shared with Moscow.

Q2: What is the significance of this meeting?

It is the first White House visit for President Erdogan in five years. It signals a potential thaw in a complicated NATO relationship. The discussion on F-35 jets is a central point of the talks.

Q3: What are the main points of tension between the US and Turkey?

Points of tension include Turkey’s ties with Russia and its human rights record. Recent sharp criticism of Israel by Erdogan also complicates the relationship. These issues contrast with shared strategic goals.

Q4: How does Turkey view its role in current global conflicts?

Turkey sees itself as a credible broker and point of stability. It maintains relations with both sides in the Ukraine war. This unique positioning is a key part of its diplomatic strategy.

Q5: What did Trump say about the upcoming meeting?

Trump announced the visit on social media. He said they are working on trade and military deals, including the F-35 talks. He expressed expectation for a positive conclusion.

Associated Press, Reuters