Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited the White House on Thursday for high-stakes talks with US President Trump.
The meeting focused on bilateral ties, defense cooperation, trade agreements, and global conflicts, including Gaza, Syria, and Ukraine. Trump personally welcomed Erdogan and called him a “best friend” and a “very respected leader” both in Turkiye and globally.
During the Oval Office discussion, Trump emphasized his strong personal bond with Erdogan. He contrasted it with what he described as the distant approach of former President Joe Biden. The Gaza conflict was a major point of discussion. Trump highlighted ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages. He credited Erdogan for his role in stabilizing Syria and influencing peace initiatives in the region.
Trump also addressed the Ukraine crisis, condemning Russia’s attacks and urging Erdogan to stop purchasing Russian oil. He expressed confidence that Turkiye could obtain energy from alternative sources, reinforcing cooperation on regional security and energy matters.
Defense cooperation featured prominently in the talks. Erdogan discussed Turkiye’s interest in acquiring F-16 and F-35 fighter jets. Trump indicated potential flexibility on lifting US sanctions that had restricted Ankara from rejoining the F-35 program, signaling progress in defense relations between the two nations.
Economic agreements were also highlighted. The US and Turkiye signed a Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement to boost collaboration in nuclear energy. Turkiye agreed to purchase over 200 Boeing aircraft, and a 20-year LNG deal worth $43 billion was finalized, supplying four billion cubic meters of liquefied natural gas annually starting in 2026. Trump added that tariffs collected from trade deals would support American farmers.
On Syria, Trump praised Erdogan’s influence in shaping events and easing US sanctions at Turkey’s request. Both leaders stressed the importance of continued cooperation on NATO security, regional peace, and expanding bilateral trade.
Analysts note that Erdogan’s visit may mark a turning point in US-Turkiye relations. Trump’s engagement signals a potential warming of ties between the two NATO allies, especially in defense and economic sectors.
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