Statements on F-35 and S-400 by US Secretary of State Rubio to Turkey
US Secretary of State Rubio announced that F-35 deliveries cannot be made to Turkey until the S-400 issue and legal conditions are met.
During his visit to Athens, US Secretary of State Rubio evaluated the sale of F-35s to Turkey, stating that the aircraft cannot be delivered until legal conditions and the S-400 issue are resolved.
F-35 Sale and Legal Conditions
US Secretary of State Rubio evaluated the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey in an interview with the Kathimerini newspaper during his visit to the Greek capital, Athens.
Stating that Turkey is a NATO member, Rubio conveyed that President Trump has expressed a desire to provide the aircraft if possible.
S-400 Issue and Congressional Obstacle
Drawing attention to the laws passed by the US Congress and the provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act containing very strict conditions, Rubio listed the obstacles to the sale.
Emphasizing that the sale cannot take place until these conditions are met or the legal problem regarding the S-400 system is resolved, Rubio noted that this situation has been communicated to the Turkish side and solutions are being sought.
Messages on the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean
In the interview, Rubio also touched upon the electrical interconnection project between Greece, the Republic of Cyprus, and Israel, sharing his views on the matter.
Rubio stated that it would be unthinkable for problems to arise in the Aegean and Cyprus, expressing that they will not allow this to happen.