08.07.2026 06:40
After US President Donald Trump announced in Ankara that CAATSA sanctions would be lifted and the F-35 issue would be reassessed, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, known for his tough stance on Turkey, also made a notable shift in attitude. Graham stated that he supports Turkey's reinstatement in the F-35 program and expressed his belief that a solution to overcome legal obstacles will be found.
While the international repercussions of the 36th NATO Leaders Summit hosted by Türkiye in Ankara continue, the statements of US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham about Türkiye left their mark on the agenda.
Graham, who was previously among those who supported Türkiye’s removal from the F-35 program and sanctions against its defense industry, gave positive messages during his contacts in Ankara regarding Türkiye’s reintegration into the F-35 program.
CHANGED HIS STANCE ON THE F-35
Speaking to Türkiye Today within the scope of the summit, Graham said he believes a solution can be found for the renewed delivery of F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye.
Stating that there may be objections in the US Congress on this issue, Graham expressed that the recent tension between Türkiye and Israel could affect the approach of some circles in Congress.
Emphasizing that he is nonetheless in favor of a solution, Graham said, “There could certainly be some objections and resistance in Congress. Especially Türkiye’s recent strained relations with Israel do not help this process in Congress. However, despite all these difficulties, I wholeheartedly believe that a reasonable solution can be found that will restore the F-35 deliveries Türkiye deserves and overcome the legal obstacles.”
“TÜRKIYE IS A MAGNIFICENT ALLY”
In his statements, Graham also drew attention to Türkiye’s strategic position within NATO.
Emphasizing the importance of the alliance relationship between the two countries, Graham said, “Türkiye is a wonderful and magnificent ally, and as the only Muslim country in NATO, it is an unshakable pillar of the alliance.”
TRUMP ALSO GAVE A MESSAGE ON THE F-35 AND CAATSA
US President Donald Trump also made assessments regarding Türkiye’s return to the F-35 program during a joint press conference with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as part of the NATO Summit held in Ankara.
In response to a question about the F-35 sale, Trump said, “That is a decision for us to make. We have very good relations with Türkiye. Türkiye has been a very loyal ally for a very long time. The F-35s, as you know, are the best planes, and we will discuss this issue.”
Also answering a question about CAATSA sanctions, Trump stated, “We will lift these sanctions. Let Mr. President not waste his time; I say it directly. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Bessent, and everyone is here; we are lifting these embargoes and sanctions. The time has come. We do not want our friends to be under embargo. We do not impose sanctions on our friends.”