Türkiye achieves self-sufficiency in defense, says Minister Guler
Yasar Güler, Defense Minister attends the 12th Term Joint Command and Staff Training and 6th Term Command and Staff Training Graduation Ceremony of the National Defense University (MSU) War Institutes, delivering a speech. (AA Photo)
Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler announced on Wednesday that Türkiye now produces nearly everything it needs at its defense industry facilities. “This is a significant advantage for our country and the Turkish Armed Forces,” Guler told Turkish news outlet Haberturk.
Regarding Türkiye’s counter-terrorism operations against terrorist groups such as the PKK/YPG, Guler stated, “We have turned the terrorist organization into a completely helpless situation. Our units have been engaged in heroic efforts in base areas for about eight years. We continue to pursue them wherever they go.”
Guler also urged terrorists to surrender to Turkish justice, describing it as their “inevitable end.” He emphasized that Turkish soldiers have not harmed those who have surrendered.
Joint operations center with Iraq
Guler reported positive developments in establishing a joint operations center with Iraqi authorities to combat the PKK/YPG. He noted that the Iraqi government has banned three PKK-affiliated parties and seized their assets. An upcoming meeting in Ankara will involve discussions with Iraqi officials.
On the PKK’s Syrian offshoot, the YPG, Guler reaffirmed that PYD and PKK are effectively the same. He criticized U.S. support for the YPG, particularly the provision of air defense systems, and expressed concerns about future U.S. plans to hand over these systems to the terror group.
F-16 and Eurofighter aircraft procurements
Guler discussed ongoing negotiations with the U.S. regarding the purchase of 40 F-16 Viper Block 70 aircraft, stating that discussions are positive but not yet concluded.
He also mentioned progress in the procurement of Eurofighter aircraft, with support from partner countries and positive developments in Germany.
Situation in Gaza
Addressing the situation in Gaza, Guler condemned the attacks, labeling them as genocide.
He highlighted the severe impact on women and children, noting that the offensive has resulted in nearly 40,000 deaths and over 92,000 injuries.He criticized the ongoing brutality and the unacceptable human toll.
