Erdogan Tells Biden To End Defence Sanctions On Turkey

Washington Bureau Chief for Turkish news service Anadolu has reported that Turkish President Recep Erdogan has told US President Joe Biden 'It's time to end all unjust defense sanctions imposed on Turkey'.

A call between the two leaders concluded recently and continues a recent Turkish drive to position itself as a credible mediator for the war in Ukraine.

• US Sanctions were imposed on Turkey in 2020 by the Trump administration in response to the Turkish purchase of a Russia s-400 missile defence system.
• The official US sanction statement reads: 'The United States made clear to Turkey at the highest levels and on numerous occasions that its purchase of the S-400 system would endanger the security of U.S. military technology and personnel and provide substantial funds to Russia’s defense sector... Turkey nevertheless decided to move ahead with the procurement and testing of the S-400, despite the availability of alternative, NATO-interoperable systems to meet its defense requirements. This decision resulted in Turkey’s suspension and pending removal from the global F-35 Joint Strike Fighter partnership.'
• Erdogan also told Biden that 'Turkey's unique position is still vital for seeking a resolve the conflict as the war deepening. Trilateral meeting between Turkish, Russian, Ukrainian Foreign Minsters is a breakthrough.'