Türkiye’s priorities for Trump: F-35, F-16 deliveries, ending US support for PKK/YPG

As Donald Trump is sworn in for his second term as the 47th president of the United States, Türkiye seeks to resolve lingering issues that remained unaddressed during the Biden presidency.

The following four urgent matters will be presented to President Trump as Türkiye aims to improve its relationship with Washington:

• End U.S. support for PKK/YPG terrorist group in Syria
  The main point of contention between the U.S. and Türkiye is Washington’s support for the PKK/YPG terrorist groups in Syria. Türkiye expects the new administration to cease this support and halt any further involvement of these groups in the ongoing conflict. Given Trump’s previous stance on reducing U.S. military engagement in Syria, Ankara hopes for a continuation of this policy under his second term.

• Lift CAATSA sanctions
  The Countering U.S.’ Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which led to sanctions on Türkiye following its purchase of the Russian S-400 air defense system, is another critical issue. Türkiye has consistently called for the removal of these sanctions, and President Trump will be urged to address this in order to enhance bilateral relations.

• Return to the F-35 program or refund
  After Türkiye’s exclusion from the F-35 fighter jet program due to the S-400 acquisition, the U.S. owes Türkiye $1.45 billion for its contributions to the program. Türkiye is demanding either reinstatement in the F-35 program or full reimbursement of the amount already paid. Ankara has reiterated its commitment to the program and expects a resolution from Trump’s administration.

• Deliver F-16s approved by Congress
  With the U.S. Congress having approved the sale of 40 F-16 fighter jets to Türkiye, Ankara expects the smooth delivery of these aircraft without further delays. This issue is crucial for Türkiye’s defense and will be an important aspect of the NATO alliance relationship.

Additional issue: Cyprus arms embargo and regional tensions

Another important issue is the ongoing arms embargo on the Greek Cypriot administration, which Türkiye views as escalating tensions in the region. Resolving this issue will be crucial for improving U.S.-Türkiye relations.

As Trump begins his second term, these four issues will be central to his interactions with Türkiye, as Ankara seeks to resolve long-standing challenges and strengthen ties with the U.S. in the coming years.