Erdogan explained why he chose the Russian S-400
As Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told reporters, the deal to purchase Russian S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems has been closed. This issue, Erdogan said, will be raised on April 8 during a meeting of the Cooperation Council. He called Washington's statement on this subject a mistake.
- stated the president of Turkey.
He added that the US side did not provide conditions as favorable for Turkey for the acquisition of air defense equipment as Moscow was able to offer. Erdogan confirmed the position of his country that she is not interested in buying the American Patriot. Moreover, the S-400 will begin to arrive in Turkey in July of this year.
In addition, Erdogan said that from across the ocean there are threats to block Ankara’s participation in the F-35 fighter program, thus wanting to punish Turkey for the purchase of S-400. However, despite this, Washington handed over his third F-35 aircraft to his country; the fourth is being prepared for transfer. In addition, training continues for Turkish pilots.
- stressed the Turkish leader.
It should be recalled that earlier US Vice President Mike Pence expressed concern over Ankara’s desire to acquire the S-400 from Russia. He accused Turkey of creating a threat of a split in NATO and urged her to make a choice: either remain one of the key partners of the North Atlantic Alliance, or create a security risk for such a partnership. The ruling Justice and Development Party in Turkey has repeatedly stated that it is not going to yield to Washington’s pressure on this issue.
The deal with Russia is completed, payment on it continues
- stated the president of Turkey.
He added that the US side did not provide conditions as favorable for Turkey for the acquisition of air defense equipment as Moscow was able to offer. Erdogan confirmed the position of his country that she is not interested in buying the American Patriot. Moreover, the S-400 will begin to arrive in Turkey in July of this year.
In addition, Erdogan said that from across the ocean there are threats to block Ankara’s participation in the F-35 fighter program, thus wanting to punish Turkey for the purchase of S-400. However, despite this, Washington handed over his third F-35 aircraft to his country; the fourth is being prepared for transfer. In addition, training continues for Turkish pilots.
Imposing sanctions is wrong policy
- stressed the Turkish leader.
It should be recalled that earlier US Vice President Mike Pence expressed concern over Ankara’s desire to acquire the S-400 from Russia. He accused Turkey of creating a threat of a split in NATO and urged her to make a choice: either remain one of the key partners of the North Atlantic Alliance, or create a security risk for such a partnership. The ruling Justice and Development Party in Turkey has repeatedly stated that it is not going to yield to Washington’s pressure on this issue.
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