Trump rejects criticism over possible F-35 sales to Türkiye
28.07.2026 - 08:54 | Last Updated:
US President Donald Trump has dismissed objections to a possible sale of F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye, saying no one has the authority to dictate US arms sales decisions and describing Türkiye as a key American ally.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One while traveling from Washington to Michigan, Trump was asked about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's reported opposition to the United States selling F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye.
Responding to the question, Trump said Washington alone would decide its defense export policies.
"No one can tell me who we should or should not sell to. Türkiye has been a great ally for me," Trump said.
The US president also spoke positively about his relationship with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, describing the Turkish leader as a friend and emphasizing the strategic importance of bilateral ties.
"Türkiye is a major ally. President Erdoğan is my friend," Trump said.
Trump acknowledged that differences between Türkiye and Israel are well known but did not elaborate further on the issue.
He also praised Türkiye's military capabilities, calling the country "strong" and highlighting the size and strength of its armed forces.
"Türkiye is a great and very powerful country. They have a tremendous military—a very large and capable force equipped with excellent military hardware," Trump said.
The remarks come amid ongoing speculation over the future of defense cooperation between Washington and Ankara, including discussions surrounding Türkiye's potential return to the F-35 fighter jet program.
