President Donald Trump said he could lift sanctions on Turkiye and allow F-35 sales if talks with President Tayyip Erdogan go well.
White House talks open with trade and advanced fighter sales on the table as Trump urges an end to Russian oil imports
President Trump welcomed President Erdogan to the Oval Office for his first White House visit in about six years.
He described the Turkish leader as a very tough man and highlighted the chance to strike major agreements.
He also pressed Turkiye to stop buying Russian oil, citing the ongoing war in Ukraine and the need to cut revenue flows to Moscow.
Since Turkiye remains among Europe’s main buyers, Trump said energy choices would shape the tone of the discussions.
Possible shift on sanctions and aircraft access as both sides explore a broader reset in relations and defense ties
Asked about selling F-35s to Turkiye, Trump said he believed Erdogan would succeed in obtaining what he wants.
He added that sanctions could be lifted very soon if the meeting delivers progress.
The two leaders planned to continue the conversation over lunch after their initial session.
For Ankara, an administration eager for major arms and trade deals presents an opening. Therefore officials hope improved personal rapport can ease earlier friction and support a wider reset.
Convergence in Syria reduces a past friction point while sharp differences over Gaza still threaten momentum
Relations were uneven during Trump’s first term. However, both sides now show alignment in Syria, which once created the most severe strain.
Support for the central government there has lowered tensions and expanded room for cooperation. Even so, a major disagreement remains over Israel’s attacks on Gaza.
Ankara calls the campaign a genocide, while Washington backs its ally. This gap could complicate otherwise friendly and transactional talks.
Even then, both governments appear ready to test a pathway that links security, energy, and trade to a more stable partnership.
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