Trump Hints Possible Sanctions Relief For Turkey Amid Defense Talks

U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the White House in September 2025, marking Erdogan's first visit in about six years. During their meeting, Trump suggested the U.S. could soon lift sanctions imposed on Turkey over its purchase of the Russian S-400 missile system and expressed openness to allowing Turkey to buy U.S. F-35 jets. However, Trump pressed Erdogan to stop purchasing Russian oil, aiming to cut off funding for Russia's war in Ukraine, noting Turkey, Hungary, and Slovakia as major European buyers of Russian oil. The meeting highlighted a shift from the previous Biden administration's cautious approach towards Turkey, reflecting Trump's warmer personal ties with Erdogan and a mutual interest in improving bilateral relations, including cooperation on Syria. Despite this, significant differences remain, such as Turkey's condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza, which contrasts with U.S. policy. The talks underscored Ankara's strategy to leverage its relationship with the Trump administration to advance arms deals and trade agreements.