What's happened
Turkey remains in talks with the US over rejoining the F-35 program after being excluded in 2020 over its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems. US-Turkey relations have improved under Trump, with discussions focusing on Turkey relinquishing the S-400s to meet US security requirements. Turkish officials remain optimistic about resolving sanctions soon.
What's behind the headline?
The renewed dialogue between Turkey and the US signals a strategic shift driven by improved personal relations between President Erdogan and President Trump. The US insists that Turkey must abandon the S-400s to re-enter the F-35 program, citing security concerns. Turkey, however, remains firm, rejecting the integration of S-400s into NATO and emphasizing its sovereignty. This standoff underscores broader tensions within NATO over defense procurement and sovereignty. The US's willingness to engage suggests a potential breakthrough, but legal and security hurdles remain significant. If Turkey complies, it could restore its role in NATO's advanced fighter jet fleet, but failure to do so risks prolonging the diplomatic deadlock, impacting regional stability and NATO cohesion. The outcome will likely influence US-Turkey relations and NATO's collective defense posture in the coming months.
What the papers say
Reuters reports that discussions are ongoing, with US officials emphasizing legal restrictions and security concerns. The New Arab highlights Turkish optimism and the influence of personal diplomacy under Trump, noting that Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan believes sanctions could be lifted soon. The Times of Israel and AP News detail the diplomatic context, emphasizing the importance of US law and the positive atmosphere created by Trump and Erdogan's relationship. All sources agree that the core issue remains Turkey's possession of the S-400s and the US's insistence on their removal for F-35 re-entry, but differ slightly on the tone of optimism and the likelihood of resolution.
How we got here
Turkey was removed from the F-35 program in 2020 after acquiring Russian S-400 missile systems, which US officials say threaten NATO's defense systems and the security of the F-35 jets. Turkey rejects this, asserting the S-400s will not be integrated into NATO. The US has maintained sanctions and exclusion, but recent diplomatic efforts, especially under Trump, have aimed to resolve the issue by encouraging Turkey to relinquish the S-400s and rejoin the F-35 program.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Is Turkey Rejoining the US F-35 Fighter Jet Program?
Turkey's potential return to the US F-35 fighter jet program has sparked widespread interest. After being suspended in 2020 over its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems, Turkey now appears to be exploring ways to re-enter the program. This development raises questions about NATO security, US-Turkey relations, and the hurdles involved in such a move. Below, we explore the key aspects of this complex situation and answer the most common questions people have about Turkey's F-35 re-entry.
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What’s the Latest on Turkey’s Return to the F-35 Program?
Turkey's bid to rejoin the F-35 fighter jet program is making headlines as diplomatic talks continue. After being excluded in 2020 over its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems, Turkey is now in discussions with the US to resolve the issues. Many are wondering what the latest developments are, how US-Turkey relations impact military cooperation, and whether sanctions might be lifted soon. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this ongoing diplomatic saga.
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How Do US and Turkey's Recent Moves Impact Regional Alliances?
Recent diplomatic actions by the US and Turkey are reshaping regional alliances and security dynamics. From Turkey's potential return to the F-35 program to US tensions with Venezuela, these developments raise questions about future cooperation and conflicts in the region. Below, we explore the key questions and implications of these moves.
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