Trump’s Remarks on Erdogan and Ukraine

During a press briefing, President Trump expressed that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan might influence Russia to end the Ukraine conflict, assuming Erdogan chooses to do so. Erdogan was present when Trump made this statement.

“People have a lot of respect for Erdogan. Everyone does. I certainly do. If he decides to take action, it could make a significant difference,” Trump said, responding to a question about whether Erdogan could encourage Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage in negotiations.

Trump noted Erdogan’s preference for neutrality in these matters. He mentioned that one effective way Erdogan could help would be to refuse purchasing oil and gas from Russia, which might be the most impactful decision.

Regarding Erdogan, Trump remarked, “He knows Putin just like I do.” He reiterated his stance that it would be beneficial for Turkey to stop buying Russian oil, especially given Russia’s ongoing military activities in Ukraine.

Trump’s comments also hinted at Turkey’s interest in rejoining the F-35 fighter jet program, although he did not confirm whether this might be tied to halting Russian oil imports.

Turkey had initially been part of the F-35 initiative until 2019 when they were removed due to their acquisition of Russian missile systems. This decision led to significant financial losses for Turkey, both in terms of their investments in the F-35 program and potential earnings from manufacturing components.

Erdogan himself expressed reservations about forming a strategic partnership regarding the F-35s, which he stated are still prohibited.

Additionally, Trump has struggled to persuade India to cease its Russian oil purchases, despite imposing significant tariffs in August. He continues to urge European leaders to stop acquiring Russian energy supplies as well.

Trump seems hopeful about a productive outcome from his discussions with Erdogan during their Washington meeting, suggesting that both sides have specific needs and that an agreement could be reached quickly.

However, the Kremlin dismissed Trump’s overtures, asserting that Turkey will make sovereign decisions that benefit its own interests in trade.