Erdogan expects advanced relations with US, praises Trump’s success against odds
Donald Trump and Recep Tayyip Erdogan. (Collage by Mehmet Akbas/Türkiye Today)
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke to journalists following his significant visits to Kyrgyzstan and Hungary.
Erdogan comments on Turkish-American relations
When asked about the U.S. election results and Donald Trump’s victory, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan responded, “First of all, I hope this election brings good for the United States, our region, and the world. Mr. Trump faced many challenges during the campaign, including an assassination attempt. Despite being taken to police stations in handcuffs, he continued his campaign with remarkable strength and resilience.”
Erdogan added, “This is no easy feat for any politician. Trump succeeded. Initially, there was speculation that Kamala Harris would easily win. Many doubted Trump’s chances. However, as the campaign advanced, the gap widened in Trump’s favor.”
Trump believed in himself and secured a decisive victory. Throughout the process, only Elon Musk stood by his side. We had a sincere conversation with Mr. Trump during a family dinner where Musk and his child were present.
We discussed the election process and the cooperation between Türkiye and the United States. I invited him to visit our country, and I hope he will accept our invitation, which could strengthen Türkiye-U.S. relations in a different manner than in the past.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
“We are aware of what we expect from our ally, the United States, on issues such as Palestine and the Russia-Ukraine crisis. It is possible to overcome these challenges through the cooperation between Türkiye and the United States.”
The F-35 issue remains unresolved, and the S-400 process is ongoing. During Trump’s previous presidency, he stated, ‘They paid the money, but you still haven’t given them the planes.’ We will see how these matters unfold in the new term and how we will proceed.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
President Erdogan expressed hope that Trump’s presidency will bring an end to regional and global conflicts and crises. He noted that they had previously worked together during Trump’s first term, acknowledging occasional disagreements but affirming that the model partnership between Türkiye and the U.S. remains strong.
Erdogan highlights strategic achievements in visits to Kyrgyzstan and Hungary
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan concluded successful visits to Kyrgyzstan and Hungary, focusing on deepening strategic ties and regional cooperation.
In Kyrgyzstan, Erdogan participated in the sixth High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council Meeting, where Türkiye and Kyrgyzstan upgraded their partnership to a comprehensive strategic level. The two nations signed 19 agreements, covering sectors like security, energy, and culture.
“I was honored to receive the Manas Order, the highest state honor in Kyrgyzstan, from President Sadyr Japarov,” Erdogan said. He also inaugurated 110 projects at Manas University, which now ranks among the top 1,000 universities globally. Additionally, the Türkiye-Kyrgyz Friendship Hospital was officially opened, symbolizing the strong bond between the two countries.
European political community summit: Migration and security in focus
Erdogan’s visit continued in Hungary, where he participated in the fifth Summit of the European Political Community. Discussions centered on challenges revolving around migration and economic security. Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in defense, energy, food security and transportation.
During his address, Erdogan criticized the European Union for hindering Türkiye’s membership process, attributing it to narrow political interests. He also urged European leaders to act against what he described as genocide by Israel in Gaza and atrocities in Lebanon. Erdogan stressed the importance of diplomatic efforts in resolving the conflict in Ukraine, calling for a fair and lasting peace.
Bilateral meetings with European leaders
On the sidelines of the summit, Erdogan held bilateral meetings with key European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Erdogan also engaged with leaders from Kosovo, Poland, Armenia, Ukraine, Switzerland, Albania, Italy, Austria, Greece, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia. He expressed optimism that these discussions would lead to positive outcomes for regional stability.
‘We will evaluate withdrawal of US troops from Syria’
When asked about rising support for Donald Trump in Israel and concerns over the Middle East following recent events, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Türkiye would continue discussions with Trump to address regional developments. Erdogan highlighted plans to discuss the U.S. troop withdrawal from Syria and ways to end support for the PKK/PYD/YPG terrorist groups.
“I believe we can establish a framework through direct communication with Trump, as we had no difficulties in maintaining contact during his previous term. We used to connect within 24 hours and achieve results through telephone diplomacy. I do not anticipate any problems in this regard during the new term.”
‘Ongoing cycle of violence in Israeli-Palestinian conflict is due to lack of permanent solution’
President Erdogan stated, “You are aware of Trump’s promises to end the conflicts initiated by Israel. We expect him to fulfill that promise and put a halt to Israel’s actions. We hope that Trump’s second term will bring about lasting peace and stability in the region. We are in favor of peace and stability.”
The ongoing cycle of violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is due to the lack of a permanent solution. If Biden’s policies are continued, it will deepen the deadlock in the region and escalate conflicts, which we do not want. I believe that halting the arms support to Israel would be a good starting point for Trump.
Any move supporting Israel’s expansionist goals will increase tensions and broaden the conflict zones. External countries should consider these risks when shaping their Middle East policies.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
“Trump’s presidency will significantly impact the political and military balances in the Middle East. Everyone must take steps aimed at peace and stability in the region, which will contribute to building global peace. Otherwise, the spread of conflict and continued massacres will harm everyone.”
US approach to European NATO members
When asked about Trump’s approach to NATO and expectations for the Ukraine-Russia conflict, President Erdogan noted Trump’s direct style, recalling that Trump once challenged Merkel on Germany’s NATO contributions, to which she had no response. Erdogan emphasized that Türkiye, as a top NATO contributor after the U.S., will continue to support the alliance at an ideal level, even if not at the same scale as the U.S.
There is no issue regarding troop numbers within NATO; we already have a strong presence. Efforts by Western countries, led by the U.S., to end the conflict in Ukraine would speed up a resolution.
From the beginning, we have supported Ukraine’s legitimate stance and preferred to remain on the side of peace. We ignored suggestions to take sides in the war and maintained contact with both parties.
We have seen that our belief in resolving the issues through diplomacy is not sufficiently shared by the West.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
“If the Trump administration approaches the issue from a perspective of resolution, we believe the war can be ended swiftly. More weapons, more bombs, and more chaos will not end this conflict. Only more dialogue, more diplomacy, and more agreements will open the door to peace,” President Erdogan added.
“We have repeatedly succeeded in bringing both sides to the negotiation table and can do so again. This war needs to end. We have intensified our efforts for peace and will continue to do so. We hope for a new beginning in the next term and a world where all conflicts and wars have ceased.” President Erdogan concluded.
‘Everyone recognizes Türkiye’s potential’
When journalists asked, “You mentioned the EU accession process earlier. Today, you met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and stated that “There is no reasonable explanation for the ongoing blockage of Türkiye’s EU accession process.”
Von der Leyen also tweeted today, saying, “Strengthening the EU-Türkiye partnership will benefit our common region.” Is there any new development on this matter? What is the direction of negotiations with the European Union?”Von der Leyen also tweeted today, saying, “Strengthening the EU-Türkiye partnership will benefit our common region.” Is there any new development on this matter? What is the direction of negotiations with the European Union?”
When asked about Türkiye’s EU accession process following his meeting with von der Leyen, President Erdogan reiterated that there is “no reasonable explanation for the ongoing blockage” of Türkiye’s accession. Von der Leyen tweeted that “strengthening the EU-Türkiye partnership will benefit our common region.”
Turkish President Erdogan said, “We have not yet seen such a stance from von der Leyen in our meeting today. These steps are still in the negotiation phase. If they genuinely open a pathway for us, we will share it.
Our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and EU-related colleagues will increase their contacts with their counterparts. We will continue to address this issue in our discussions with leaders, and we hope to achieve a positive outcome.”
Everyone recognizes Türkiye’s potential. Recent efforts by Europe to enhance cooperation with Türkiye are also proof of this.
We remain committed to our goal of full EU membership and have taken steps in this direction. We advocate for a relationship with the EU based on equal conditions and at eye level, without political barriers.
We expect a visionary approach from the EU to make up for lost time, and we convey this to our European counterparts at every opportunity
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
“Updating the Customs Union and taking steps toward visa liberalization would be a good start. Fulfilling the promises made to us would be an opportunity for the EU to demonstrate its sincerity, as we have already passed the test by keeping all of our commitments.” Erdogan added.
11th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States
When asked if a recent security agreement at the 11th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States could signal steps toward a joint Turkic army, President Erdogan dismissed the idea as “far-reaching.” He clarified that there is currently no such vision among the Turkic states.
The Civil Protection Mechanism Agreement signed at the summit, he noted, is intended to enhance regional security cooperation, focusing on coordinated disaster and emergency responses. Erdogan emphasized that the agreement’s main goal is to strengthen solidarity among member states during emergencies.
This cooperation will make us more prepared and resilient for such events. We first laid the foundation for this idea at the extraordinary summit we held following the disaster of the century in our country.
This agreement will further strengthen the unity of the Organization of Turkic States. We have learned once again how crucial solidarity is during disasters and post-disaster processes. There are ongoing steps in areas such as training, exercises, and technology transfer among our countries.
All these developments can help establish deeper ties in the field of security. However, these processes take time and are influenced by various political, economic, and social dynamics.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
“In today’s world, the importance of alliances, unions, and international organizations has increased several times over. Such solidarity-based steps will add to the strength of these organizations,” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated.
FETO terrorist organization affiliated schools in Kyrgyzstan
When asked about Türkiye’s request to transfer Fetullah terrorist organization (FETO)-affiliated schools in Kyrgyzstan to the Maarif Foundation, President Erdogan confirmed that progress has been made in combating the organization’s influence there.
Erdogan noted Kyrgyzstan as one of the countries where FETO sought to establish itself and highlighted recent effective measures taken against it. Speaking to students at Manas University, he urged them to resist those who seek to “control minds or exploit integrity,” emphasizing that FETO and similar groups aim to manipulate individuals into becoming followers.
There is no fundamental difference between these groups; they all seek compliant, mindless, and characterless operatives for their goals. We continue to expose FETO’s true face to every country where it operates, advising them to eliminate this malignant entity for the safety of their people and future generations.
We explain how the organization disguises itself, the hypnotic tactics it uses, and why fighting against them is a security matter. Those who understand the threat, like Kyrgyzstan, are taking action. The number of countries recognizing the danger posed by the organization is increasing.
We will continue our efforts to raise awareness and never halt our struggle. This is part of our broader fight against terrorism, and we will not retreat even an inch in this fight. The international aspect of combating FETO is critical, and our comprehensive struggle against their global networks continues in all fields
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
“We are pleased with the recognition of the importance of measures in the education sector and the steps taken to transfer control of these educational institutions to the Maarif Foundation. We are committed to aligning the management of these schools with the educational standards of the Maarif Foundation,” President Erdogan added.
“We will soon see the stronger presence of our Maarif Foundation in Kyrgyzstan. We are determined in our fight against FETO and all other terrorist organizations, and we will continue making progress,” Erdogan concluded.
Erdogan comments on allegations about trade relations with Israel
President Erdogan addressed accusations regarding alleged trade ties with Israel, calling them baseless and politically motivated. He affirmed that Türkiye has fully cut off trade with Israel and intends to maintain this stance, dismissing the claims as “absurd” attempts by some political parties to stir controversy.
Erdogan emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Gaza and its collaboration with Egypt to counter Israeli actions, vowing to continue these efforts with determination.
Israel has been occupying Palestinian land for decades. People have been struggling to survive in what are essentially open-air prisons for years. What is happening in Gaza today is nothing short of genocide. Innocent people, mostly children and women, are being brutally killed. Over two million people confined to a small strip of land are being bombarded relentlessly.
We are witnessing shameful days for humanity. Our efforts to expose the atrocities in Gaza will not cease. At every opportunity, we will highlight Israel’s cruelty, human rights violations, and breaches of international law. Even if others forget the massacres and the cries of babies and mothers in Gaza, we will not forget and will ensure they are not forgotten.
Netanyahu and his cohorts will be held accountable for their actions. We are pursuing them, and we will not rest until they answer for their crimes.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
“As Türkiye, we have mobilized all the resources at our disposal to support our brothers and sisters in Gaza. So far, we have delivered over 85,000 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza with the support of Egyptian officials. Looking at these figures, we can say that we are the country that has provided the most aid to Gaza,” Erdogan stated.
Erdogan comments on anti-terror operation and security corridor
“There will be no change in our counter-terrorism strategy. Our determination remains unwavering. The plan for a 30-40 kilometer deep corridor will continue as is,” President Erdogan said.
“Our operations in Syria and Iraq, targeting and tracking terrorists, and eliminating the threat at its source, will proceed without compromise. We have made it clear in words and through our actions that we will not allow the establishment of a terrorist entity beyond our borders.” Erdogan added.
Türkiye has conducted military operations in northern Iraq and Syria, aiming to establish a 30-40 kilometer deep security corridor along our borders and to completely eliminate terrorist elements from the region.
There will be no stepping back or easing of our efforts. We are fully aware that even the smallest gap left for terrorist elements poses a significant threat to our national security. We will continue our counter-terrorism operations without leaving any room for terrorists.
Türkiye will not hesitate to take the necessary measures to protect itself. Every step we take towards securing our borders aims to block the transit routes of terrorists, and we are enhancing our border security with advanced technology and personnel deployments.
We are in a continuous struggle against terrorism, and this fight will only end when the last terrorist is neutralized and the threat against our country is eliminated.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
