The US administration has stated that it is engaged in “the most positive and productive discussions of nearly the past decade” with Türkiye regarding Ankara’s desire to rejoin the F-35 program and the status of its Russian-made S-400 air defense system. The assessment emphasized that the close dialogue between the two countries’ leaders has given new momentum to the negotiations.
According to the statement, Washington reiterated that US law is clear on the conditions for Türkiye’s return to the F-35 program, noting once again that Ankara must no longer operate or retain the S-400 system. Even so, officials stressed that the constructive engagement established between the sides in recent months has created strong ground for progress in the process.
The US added that the positive relationship between President Trump and President Erdoğan has helped enable this diplomatic environment, noting that they “hope to reach a breakthrough in the coming months that meets the United States’ safety requirements while also addressing Türkiye’s expectations.”
