Türkiye expects US to lift CAATSA sanctions and all defence-industry restrictions, calling them incompatible with alliance spirit as talks continue on six F-35s

Türkiye’s National Defence Ministry said Ankara expects the United States to lift CAATSA sanctions and all restrictions on its defence industry. Ministry spokesperson Zeki Akturk made the statement during ongoing talks over the delivery of six F-35 fighter jets produced for Ankara, describing the restrictions as incompatible with the spirit of the alliance. Contacts with US officials are continuing.

Akturk said any Turkish military contribution to Saudi Arabia under the new Mecca Defence Alliance would be determined in accordance with Türkiye’s Constitution and relevant legislation. The agreement, signed in August by Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, requires parliamentary approval and completion of formal procedures for deploying armed forces personnel abroad.