Istanbul: President Tayyip Erdogan has expressed confidence that the U.S. sanctions imposed on Turkey’s defence industry under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) will soon be resolved, citing what he described as a more constructive relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Speaking to journalists aboard his return flight from Albania, Erdogan commented on the recent U.S. approval of a potential missile sale to Turkey, interpreting it as a signal of changing dynamics. “I can easily say there is an easing on CAATSA,” he stated, referring to the sanctions imposed by the U.S. in response to Turkey’s purchase of Russia’s S-400 missile defence system.
Erdogan added that he had discussed the issue directly with President Trump and also with Washington’s new ambassador to Ankara.
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“With my friend Trump taking office, we reached a more open, more constructive, more sincere communication,” he said, according to a transcript of his in-flight remarks.
Turkey has long contested the sanctions, arguing they are unjust and counterproductive, particularly given its strategic role within NATO. While the U.S. Congress has remained cautious about relaxing restrictions, Erdogan’s remarks suggest Ankara perceives a shift in tone under Trump’s administration.
