Erdogan Says US Eases Defense Sanctions, Expects CAATSA End

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed optimism about the easing of US sanctions on Turkey's defense sector under President Donald Trump's administration, particularly regarding the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). The sanctions, imposed in 2020 due to Turkey's purchase of the Russian S-400 missile defense system, had strained relations between the NATO allies and led to Turkey's exclusion from the F-35 fighter jet program. Erdogan highlighted improved and more constructive communication with Trump and his envoy, Tom Barrack, and signaled progress toward lifting these restrictions. He emphasized the importance of US-Turkey defense cooperation for regional and global stability and mentioned discussions about Turkey's potential acquisition of F-16 jets and re-entry into the F-35 program. Additionally, Turkey is pursuing modernization of its air force with plans to buy 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets from a European consortium. Overall, Erdogan anticipates a faster resolution of CAATSA-related issues as ties between the two countries warm under the current US administration.