Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Turkey and U.S. Forge Defense Partnership Amid Sanction Talks

3/26/2025

22 5

Summary

Story summary

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in pivotal talks in Washington, focusing on bolstering defense collaboration and easing sanctions. As they tackled Turkey's exclusion from the F-35 program and regional security concerns, Erdogan underscored Turkey's vital role in Europe, aiming for a remarkable $100 billion trade partnership with the U.S.

History

Historical Context

Turkey's strategic role in NATO has evolved since it joined in 1952. The U.S. imposed sanctions after Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 systems in 2017, leading to its exclusion from the F-35 program. Recent talks aim to restore defense collaboration and enhance trade, reminiscent of Cold War alliances where military cooperation was crucial for regional stability amid rising tensions.

1 of 2

Story summary

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in pivotal talks in Washington, focusing on bolstering defense collaboration and easing sanctions. As they tackled Turkey's exclusion from the F-35 program and regional security concerns, Erdogan underscored Turkey's vital role in Europe, aiming for a remarkable $100 billion trade partnership with the U.S.

1 / 2