Trump Pledges to Lift Defense Sanctions on Türkiye, Wants to Reinstate F-35 Program

U.S. President Donald Trump announced Tuesday plans to remove defense sanctions against Türkiye, signaling a major policy shift at the opening of the NATO summit in Ankara.

The U.S. leader dismissed concerns over Ankara's previous procurement of Russian missile defense systems. He confirmed his administration is evaluating the sale of advanced F-35 combat aircraft to the Turkish military.

Speaking alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Trump praised the state of bilateral relations. He described current diplomatic ties as stronger than at any prior point in history.

Trump emphasized Türkiye's loyalty and military capacity. He stated that the country has proven more helpful to Washington than many traditional allies.

Reevaluating the F-35 Program

The potential reinstatement of Türkiye into the F-35 program dominated the initial discussions. Trump noted that Washington is actively reviewing the legal restrictions that previously halted the procurement.

"We're going to make a decision," Trump stated, questioning the rationale behind maintaining the sales block. "And certainly something we will consider, yeah."

Erdogan expressed confidence in securing the advanced warplanes. The Turkish leader cited an existing commitment for five aircraft, stating that a favorable resolution is imminent.

Trump also pledged U.S. support for maintaining existing military aviation assets. He confirmed an obligation to assist Türkiye with the upkeep of engines for aircraft previously purchased from American defense contractors.

Lifting CAATSA Restrictions

The decision to remove Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) penalties marks a definitive departure from recent U.S. defense policy.

When pressed on potential security risks associated with Türkiye's Russian-made missile systems, Trump dismissed the issue entirely. "I don't have concerns about anything," he told reporters.

The U.S. president framed the sanctions reversal as a pragmatic diplomatic choice. "We don't want to sanction friends," Trump remarked.

Geopolitical Realignments

The NATO gathering served as a backdrop for Trump to voice broader frustrations with the military alliance.

He indicated that his attendance in Ankara was secured primarily through his personal relationship with Erdogan.

Trump described the Turkish president as a highly capable and powerful leader. "Sometimes you get along with the toughest people, like him," Trump observed.

Beyond bilateral defense trade, Trump briefly addressed the wider regional security environment. He expressed certainty that Erdogan opposes Iranian nuclear proliferation.

The U.S. leader also referenced shifting diplomatic dynamics across Europe and the Middle East.

He noted strained relations with Italian and British leadership over distinct foreign policy disputes, alongside ongoing negotiations to conclude the conflict in Ukraine.