On March 16, 2025, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and U.S. President Donald Trump held a significant phone call, marking their first official conversation since Trump began his second term. The discussion focused on critical geopolitical issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and the situation in Syria, highlighting Turkey’s strategic role in both conflicts.
Key Takeaways
- Erdogan expressed Turkey’s support for U.S. efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
- The Turkish President called for a review of U.S. sanctions on Turkey’s defense industry.
- Discussions included the importance of restoring stability in Syria and addressing refugee returns.
- Erdogan emphasized Turkey’s role as a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Support For U.S. Initiatives In Ukraine
During the call, Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s backing for Trump’s initiatives aimed at resolving the war in Ukraine. He emphasized Turkey’s unique position as a mediator, maintaining diplomatic relations with both Russia and Ukraine while supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty. Erdogan’s government has facilitated negotiations and grain exports, showcasing Turkey’s influence in the Black Sea region.
Erdogan also mentioned Turkey’s willingness to deploy troops in Ukraine as part of a potential peacekeeping force, a proposal that has yet to receive a clear response from Russia.
Call For Sanctions Review
Erdogan urged Trump to reconsider the sanctions imposed on Turkey’s defense industry under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). These sanctions were enacted in 2020 following Turkey’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defense system, which led to Turkey’s removal from the F-35 fighter jet program.
In addition to lifting sanctions, Erdogan requested the finalization of the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey, aiming to enhance defense cooperation between the two nations. This request aligns with Turkey’s broader strategy to recalibrate its foreign policy and strengthen ties with Western allies while balancing relations with Russia.
Stability In Syria
The conversation also touched on the situation in Syria, where Erdogan highlighted the need for lifting sanctions to restore stability and support the return of Syrian refugees. He emphasized the importance of a functional new administration in Syria, which would facilitate normalization and the safe return of displaced individuals.
Erdogan’s administration has been vocal about the need for a coordinated approach to combat terrorism in the region, particularly concerning the U.S. alliance with Kurdish groups in Syria, which Turkey considers terrorist organizations.
Conclusion
The call between Erdogan and Trump signifies a potential shift in U.S.-Turkey relations, with both leaders expressing a desire to collaborate on pressing international issues. As Turkey seeks to enhance its role on the global stage, the outcomes of this dialogue could have significant implications for the geopolitical landscape in both Ukraine and Syria.
Sources
- Turkey’s Erdogan discusses Russia-Ukraine war, Syria in first official call with Trump, AL-Monitor.
- Turkey’s Erdogan Calls on Trump to Review Sanctions on Defense, Mint.
- Erdogan tells Trump that Turkey supports US efforts to end Russia’s war, The Kyiv Independent.
- Erdogan, Trump discuss Ukraine, Syria, defence issues, Turkey says, Reuters.
