Trump Urges Erdogan to Cut Russian Oil Imports, Hints at F-35 Deal in White House Meeting

President Donald Trump urged Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to leverage his influence by halting all purchases of Russian oil to help end the war in Ukraine, highlighting Turkey's role as the third-largest importer of Russian oil. Trump suggested that if Turkey complies, he might consider lifting the ban on Turkey's participation in the F-35 fighter jet program, which was suspended in 2019 due to Turkey's purchase of Russian missile systems. The meeting, described by Trump as "conclusive," reflected a strategic recalibration aimed at strengthening US-Turkey ties and pressuring Russia through economic means. Trump emphasized Erdogan's potential to influence both Moscow and Kyiv but noted that Turkey currently maintains a neutral stance. The talks also included discussions on lifting US sanctions on Turkey, signaling a possible improvement in bilateral relations involving defense, trade, and energy cooperation. Both leaders expressed readiness to cooperate more broadly, with Turkey seeking to regain access to advanced American military technology.