13.07.2026 02:00
U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO Ambassador Matt Whitaker gave a green light to the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, saying, "I think it's a deal that's possible to happen." Speaking to CNN, Whitaker stated that U.S. President Donald Trump negotiated this issue with President Erdogan, but indicated that even if the S-400 precondition and legal processes are completed, the delivery will be spread over time.
US Permanent Representative to NATO, Ambassador Matt Whitaker, announced that the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey is "possible to happen again." Whitaker stated that US President Donald Trump is considering selling these jets to Turkey and is seeking the right basis for an agreement.
"TRUMP WILL SECURE THE RIGHT DEAL"
Ambassador Whitaker, in an exclusive statement to CNN, expressed understanding of Congressional concerns about critical technical information of F-35 jets falling into Russian hands. Despite this, he expressed belief that the process would conclude positively, saying, "I think this is a possible deal. I believe it will happen. President Trump will ensure the right deal is made for the sale of F-35s to the Turkish military." He added that Trump is currently negotiating this agreement with President Erdogan.
"TURKISH MILITARY IS A HIGHLY CAPABLE ALLY INTEGRATED WITH THE WEST"
Sharing his observations on the NATO Summit held in Turkey, Whitaker praised the Turkish military. The NATO representative emphasized that Turkey is a "highly capable ally" and "integrated with the West," stating, "We must further strengthen this relationship with Turkey," highlighting the importance of the strategic partnership between Washington and Ankara.
S-400 CONDITION AND DELIVERY PROCESS
Whitaker noted that US laws still hold Russian-made S-400 air defense systems as a "prerequisite" for the sale of F-35s to Turkey, indicating the process will take time. The Ambassador pointed to a phased delivery, saying, "You know that even if Turkey were reinstated in the program and met all legal conditions, these jets would not be delivered immediately tomorrow."
Six years ago, the US Congress passed a law stipulating Turkey's removal from the F-35 program on the grounds that it possessed Russian air defense technology, the S-400 missiles.