Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he is confident Turkey will be readmitted to the US F-35 fighter jet program. During discussions in New York, Erdogan cited a “positive willingness” from US President Donald Trump. The meeting took place amid ongoing tensions between Turkey and the United States over Turkey’s purchase of Russian S-400 defense systems.
Erdogan emphasized that the talks were constructive and that both sides are committed to resolving the issue. Trump, however, has not publicly confirmed the details of the agreement. The F-35 program remains a key point of contention, as Turkey’s acquisition of the Russian system led to sanctions and a temporary suspension of its participation in the program.
The visit to New York also saw Trump attend a multilateral meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to address the United Nations, though he will not meet Trump during his short visit.
Polling shows growing Republican dissatisfaction with Trump ahead of the midterm elections, which could influence the political landscape in the coming weeks.
