President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that the United States will lift sanctions on Turkey and consider restoring its access to the F-35 fighter-jet program [1].
The move represents a significant shift in diplomatic relations between the two NATO allies, potentially resolving a long-standing military and economic rift. By reintegrating Turkey into the F-35 program, the U.S. aims to strengthen regional security ties and stabilize a volatile partnership.
Speaking during the NATO summit in Ankara on July 8, 2026 [1], the president praised the Turkish government. "Turkey has been a great partner, and we look forward to working together again," Trump said [2].
The decision follows years of tension regarding Turkey's defense procurement. "We're going to be taking steps to lift the sanctions and get Turkey back into the F-35 program," Trump said [1].
Disputes over the original sanctions vary by report. Some accounts state the measures were imposed due to Turkey's purchase of Russian defense missiles [2], while others attribute them to a dispute regarding the U.S.-built F-35 fighter-jet program [3]. The dossier notes a claim that sanctions were originally imposed during a period from 2001 to 2009 [1].
Trump characterized the announcement as a pivotal step for the international alliance. "This is a historic moment for NATO and for our alliance with Turkey," Trump said [4].
The restoration of the F-35 program would allow Turkey to once again purchase and operate the advanced stealth fighters, which were previously blocked to ensure the security of U.S. military technology. This policy reversal signals a priority on diplomatic cooperation over previous defense restrictions.
“"We're going to be taking steps to lift the sanctions and get Turkey back into the F-35 program."”
The decision to lift sanctions and potentially restore F-35 access suggests a strategic pivot toward prioritizing NATO cohesion and bilateral relations with Turkey over previous security concerns regarding Russian hardware. If implemented, this move could shift the balance of aerial power in the Eastern Mediterranean and signal a more transactional approach to alliance management.
