Turkish President Visits White House, Discusses Trade and F-35 Jets
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss trade relations and Turkey's involvement in the F-35 fighter jet program, exposing diplomatic tensions and economic challenges.
High-Level Talks at the White House
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited the White House for a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on trade issues and defense cooperation, according to Turkish Minute. The discussions included Turkey’s ongoing interest in participating in the U.S.-led F-35 fighter jet program, a point of contention in recent years. Trump pressed Erdogan to halt Turkey’s purchases of Russian oil, as reported by a YouTube broadcast covering the meeting. The U.S. President also indicated that Ankara’s access to the F-35 program could be reconsidered if Turkey adjusted its energy partnerships.
The visit was marked by formal photo opportunities but highlighted underlying diplomatic strains. Turkish Minute reported that Erdogan’s trip exposed Turkey’s deepening isolation on the international stage and Washington’s persistent distrust of Ankara’s foreign policy direction. The high-profile meeting took place at the White House in Washington, D.C., with both leaders seeking to project unity despite unresolved disputes.
Diplomatic and Economic Consequences
According to Turkish Minute, Erdogan’s foreign policy has resulted in costly diplomatic and economic consequences for Turkey. The White House meeting underscored the high stakes for Ankara, as the U.S. administration linked future economic cooperation and defense sales to Turkey’s alignment with Western energy and security priorities. Trump’s request for Turkey to stop buying Russian oil was presented as a prerequisite for further defense collaboration, including the potential for Turkey to obtain F-35 jets.
The Jerusalem Post reported that the leaders also reached an agreement on Gaza, reflecting a broader agenda beyond bilateral trade and defense. However, the main focus remained on the economic and security relationship between the two NATO allies. The visit concluded without immediate breakthroughs, but with both sides acknowledging the complex challenges that continue to shape U.S.-Turkey relations.