Erdogan: With Trump, US Sanctions on Turkey’s Defense Sector Will Ease Quickly

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stated that the U.S. sanctions under ‘CAATSA’ targeting Turkey’s defense sector will soon be overcome due to a more open and constructive approach. Speaking to reporters upon his return from Albania, where he attended the European Political Community summit, Erdogan noted, “We see relaxation in the CAATSA framework. We discussed this with U.S. President Donald Trump and the new U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, Tom Barak, during his welcome. I believe we will overcome the CAATSA process much faster.” He emphasized shared interests between Turkey and the U.S., ranging from defense industries to economic relations and regional security. Erdogan reiterated the importance of establishing a constructive dialogue based on mutual respect and understanding. Furthermore, at the Tirana Summit, Erdogan highlighted Turkey’s pivotal role in European security, prosperity, and stability. He underscored the need to overcome political obstacles hindering deeper cooperation in these areas, warning that Europe risks losing competitiveness without such advancements.