diplomacyTuesday, July 7, 20264 sources

Trump Announces Potential F-35 Sales to Turkey Amid S-400 Purchase, Sparks NATO Summit Controversy

On July 7, 2026, Donald Trump declared that Turkey’s purchase of Russian S-400 systems would not hinder potential F-35 sales, despite Israeli opposition. Trump also hinted at refusing to attend a NATO summit unless it was held in Turkey. The move has raised concerns about regional security and alliance cohesion.

Trump stated during a meeting in Ankara that Turkey’s acquisition of Russian S-400 air defense systems posed no problem for the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets. This marks a significant policy shift, as Turkey had been excluded from the F-35 program following its purchase of Russian military equipment. Sources indicate that Trump is expected to support the sale of F-35 jets to Turkey, following a $700 million engine deal announced earlier this month. The decision has drawn strong opposition from Israel’s Prime Minister, who warned of risks to regional stability. Meanwhile, NATO leaders are convening in Ankara for a summit focused on defense spending and alliance security. The timing of the summit and Trump’s potential refusal to attend unless it is held in Turkey has added to the diplomatic tension. The administration’s stance reflects a broader recalibration of U.S. foreign policy in the region.

Timelines

US-NATO Alliance DynamicsUS-NATO Alliance Dynamics: Diplomacy and Alliance Cohesion

Sources

IndependentAl JazeeraJul 7, 08:11 PM
Trump says will lift sanctions on Turkiye, ‘consider’ selling F-35s

Announcement during Ankara meeting suggests pivot in US policy, despite opposition from Israel.

StateTASSJul 7, 07:41 PM
Trump says Turkey’s purchase of S-400 systems from Russia no problem for F-35 sales

The US leader reiterated that he would probably refuse to take part in the summit if it were not held in Turkey

IndependentThe HinduJul 7, 02:37 PM
Trump expected to support potential sale of F-35 jets to Türkiye, sources say

The news comes just a few weeks after the Trump administration formally notified ‌Congress of its intention to sell jet engines worth more than $700 million for Türkiye’s first indigenous combat jet

IndependentTimes of IndiaJul 7, 11:56 AM
Donald Trump may allow Turkey back into F-35 fighter jet programme: Report

US President Trump may allow Turkey back into the F-35 fighter jet program. This potential breakthrough follows Turkey's removal after buying Russian air defense systems. Israel's Prime Minister opposes this move, citing regional stability concerns. The development occurs as NATO leaders gather for a summit in Ankara. Defense spending and alliance security will dominate the important NATO discussions.