Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has expressed hope that several major issues with the United States could see progress following his recent high-level talks with President Donald Trump. The discussions focused on lifting certain US sanctions on Turkey, resolving the long-standing F-35 fighter jet access issue, and addressing a legal case involving Turkey’s state-owned Halkbank.
Erdogan said that his visit to the White House marked a “new era” in relations between the two countries. During his remarks, he expressed optimism about improvements in both military and economic cooperation. He highlighted that the talks were constructive and could lead to concrete steps to resolve ongoing disagreements.
Among the key issues discussed were US sanctions imposed under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). These sanctions were applied after Turkey’s purchase of the Russian S-400 missile defense system. CAATSA sanctions have had broad implications for Turkey, affecting its defense partnerships, international trade, and economic relations with the United States. Erdogan emphasized that he hopes these sanctions can be lifted following positive discussions with Trump.
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F-35 Fighter Jet Access Under Review
A significant point of discussion was Turkey’s access to the F-35 fighter jet program, which has been a long-standing source of tension between the two countries. Turkey had been an active partner in the program, contributing to development and production of the advanced aircraft. However, the country was removed from the program after its purchase of the Russian missile system, which the United States viewed as a potential security risk for NATO operations.
Erdogan expressed hope that the F-35 issue could be resolved, signaling a potential reopening of cooperation in advanced defense technology. Access to these jets is considered critical for modernizing Turkey’s air force and strengthening its defense capabilities. The president noted that discussions with Trump have been constructive, and both sides are exploring solutions to address this complex issue.
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Halkbank Legal Case Sees Possible Progress
Another major issue highlighted during the talks was the legal case involving Halkbank, a Turkish state-owned bank. The case centers on allegations that Halkbank facilitated transactions designed to bypass US sanctions on another country. This legal matter has strained relations between Turkey and the United States for years and has drawn significant attention from financial and diplomatic circles.
Erdogan noted that Trump told him the “Halkbank problem is finished,” though some procedural steps still need to be completed to finalize the resolution. While legal processes remain, Erdogan expressed hope that these steps would be concluded positively. A successful resolution of the case would represent a major diplomatic and financial development for Turkey and could ease tensions between the two nations.
Officials also highlighted that the discussions addressed both procedural and policy aspects of the Halkbank issue. The tone of the talks, according to Erdogan, indicates a willingness on both sides to work toward practical solutions.
