Trump signals major shift in U.S.-Turkey relations: eyes F-35 sales and plans to lift sanctions

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he is actively considering resuming sales of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Turkey and intends to lift sanctions imposed on Ankara following its purchase of Russia’s S-400 air defense system.

Speaking during a bilateral meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara, Trump praised Turkey as a key ally and described the relationship as stronger than with many other NATO partners.

“Turkey has been, in many ways, much more loyal than other countries that we think would be loyal,” Trump said. “It’s a great plane, it’s the best, currently the best plane by far. And it’s certainly something we will consider.”

The remarks represent a potential major reversal of U.S. policy. During Trump’s first term, the U.S. removed Turkey from the F-35 program in 2019 after Ankara acquired the Russian S-400 system, citing concerns that Moscow could use the deal to gain intelligence on the stealth technology. Congress later codified the ban into law through the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act, tying any resumption of sales to Turkey’s removal of the Russian systems.

Trump also confirmed plans to remove the CAATSA sanctions placed on Turkey’s defence procurement agency, stating simply, “We’re going to be taking the sanctions off. We don’t want to sanction friends.”

Turquoise carpet

The comments came as Trump received a notably warm and elaborate welcome from Erdoğan, including full military honors, a ceremonial motorcade, and a turquoise carpet at both the airport and the presidential complex – a gesture symbolising the strength of bilateral ties.

U.S. officials had signalled earlier that Trump planned to use the NATO summit to explore resetting relations with Turkey, one of the alliance’s most strategically important but often difficult members. The move could help address broader NATO priorities, including increased European defence spending and support for Ukraine, while strengthening Turkey’s role as a key partner in the Black Sea region and against terrorism.

However, the proposed policy shift is likely to face significant pushback in Congress. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed deep concern over any F-35 sale, warning that it could compromise the security of the entire program and embolden Turkey’s increasingly assertive foreign policy, including its operations in Syria and tensions with Greece.

Congress banned F-35 sales to Turkey for several reasons: the S-400s, the illegal occupation of Cyprus, and the threats to Greece, to name a few. @POTUS cannot just wave these actions away with a handshake in Ankara.
I am urging @RepJeffries and @SteveScalise to introduce a… pic.twitter.com/XPQc2LjJbP
— Dina Titus (@repdinatitus) July 7, 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also reportedly voiced opposition, citing risks to the regional balance of power.

Israeli opposition to Turkey’s acquisition of F-35s is based on the possibility that the current zones of influence of Israel and Turkey could shift in Turkey’s favor. With the future capabilities of the Turkish Air Force, this could change the balance of power in Syria and alter… pic.twitter.com/bABvKzjFAX
— Dünya Başol (@dunya_basol) July 7, 2026

Analysts note that any final decision on F-35 sales would require navigating complex legal hurdles, including potential waivers or new legislation. For now, Trump’s statements reflect a personal diplomatic approach focused on his longstanding relationship with Erdoğan.

The developments come amid the two-day NATO summit in Ankara, where leaders are discussing defence spending targets, European security, and ongoing support for Ukraine. Trump’s emphasis on bilateral deals with key allies like Turkey underscores his “America First” approach to the transatlantic alliance.

Turkey has long sought to rejoin the F-35 program, arguing that the S-400 and the jets are compatible and that the purchase was made before the U.S. imposed restrictions. Erdoğan has repeatedly highlighted Turkey’s contributions to NATO, including its role in the alliance’s southern flank.

Whether the announced policy shift materializes remains to be seen, but Tuesday’s statements mark the most significant public indication yet of a potential thaw in U.S.-Turkey defence relations.

Sources: Politis, Reuters, CNN, and statements from the White House and Turkish Presidency.

Caption: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomes US President Donald Trump at Ankara Airport, ahead of the 2026 NATO Heads of State and Government Summit in Ankara, Turkey, 07 July 2026. The summit will take place on 07 and 08 July, focusing on strengthening defense industrial production and securing long-term military aid for Ukraine. EPA/OSMANCAN GURDOGAN / POOL