Türkiye rejects US proposal to deploy S-400 system in Ukraine

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu revealed that the United States asked Türkiye to send its Russian-made S-400 air missile defense system to Ukraine to counter Russian forces.

Ekleme: 07.05.2023 18:46:28 / Güncelleme: 07.05.2023 18:46:28 / English News / Ankara Haberleri
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However, Türkiye refused the proposal, stating that it would infringe on its sovereignty.

“They made proposals that directly concern our sovereignty, such as give us control of this, give it to another place. Where is our independence and sovereignty?” Cavusoglu said in an interview with Habertürk.

Türkiye's decision to procure the S-400 system had previously resulted in its removal from the F-35 stealth fighter jet program.

Turkish officials have consistently maintained that the S-400s were acquired to safeguard national security and should not be subjected to meddling by other nations.

While Çavuşoğlu stated that Türkiye is not currently interested in rejoining the F-35 program, he did express the expectation of receiving a refund for the funds already paid for the undelivered fighter jets.

He highlighted Türkiye's current focus on the development of its own national combat aircraft and the intention to enhance relations with the United States.

In addition, Türkiye has formally requested to purchase F-16 jets and modernization kits from the US, although progress on this request has been sluggish. (ILKHA)