Trump’s ties to Erdogan sold him on this year’s NATO summit. Turkey may win big in other ways
Summary
President Donald Trump has accepted an invitation to the NATO summit in Turkey, largely due to his close relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Trump praised Erdogan and suggested that the U.S. might soon approve sales of advanced military equipment, like F-35 jets, to Turkey despite previous restrictions.Key Facts
- President Trump often criticized other NATO leaders but praised Turkish President Erdogan as a “hell of a leader” and a good friend.
- Erdogan personally invited Trump to attend the NATO summit in Ankara, emphasizing the importance of U.S. participation.
- Trump’s attendance is seen as helping to avoid problems within NATO caused by his previous threats to reduce U.S. forces in Europe.
- The U.S. and other NATO members have long disagreed on defense spending, with Trump pressing allies to increase it.
- Turkey has been barred from receiving F-35 fighter jets because of its close ties with Russia.
- Trump hinted he might announce progress on selling jet engines or F-35 jets to Turkey during the summit.
- Experts note Trump tends to have better relations with leaders like Erdogan, who are considered strongmen and not traditional allies.
- Erdogan avoided engaging closely with President Biden but is relying on his ties with Trump.
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