Erdogan, Trump kick off high-stakes meeting in Washington What’s on the agenda?

A pivotal meeting is underway in Washington as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and US President Donald Trump engage in high-level talks aimed at strengthening strategic and economic relations between the two NATO allies.

The two leaders met outside the West Wing of the White House, where President Trump was briefly questioned by reporters about the potential sale of F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye. While declining to provide specific details, Trump hinted that developments would be revealed soon, stating, “The public will find out,” Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media. 

According to senior officials, the Turkish delegation is expected to raise several key issues during the talks, including:

• Türkiye’s request for F-16 fighter jets and potential reinstatement in the F-35 program;

• A major purchase agreement involving Boeing aircraft for Turkish Airlines;

• The acquisition of US Patriot missile defence systems;

• A proposed energy partnership centered on US liquefied natural gas exports to Türkiye.

The two leaders are also expected to address broader geopolitical issues. Sources familiar with the discussions noted that the ongoing conflict in Gaza and regional stability in the Middle East are part of the wider agenda. US officials expressed cautious optimism about the potential for progress in resolving the Gaza crisis.

In a joint statement to the press, both presidents described the meeting as "highly productive." Erdoğan emphasised the importance of dialogue in navigating a complex regional and global landscape, while Trump praised the Turkish leader, calling him “a tough politician” and reaffirming their strong relationship.

The US president confirmed that Türkiye remains interested in acquiring F-16s, F-35s, and Patriot systems, noting that discussions around these sales, as well as potential lifting of sanctions under the CAATSA law, are on the table — contingent on the outcome of negotiations.

“We will discuss the Patriot systems. We will discuss the F-35s,” Trump reiterated.

He also urged Türkiye to halt purchases of Russian oil, a point likely to factor into broader discussions on energy policy and strategic alignment.

President Erdoğan’s visit follows his participation in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. His US  trip includes a series of critical discussions with the Trump administration focused on deepening cooperation in defence, trade, and energy.

By Sabina Mammadli