US Statement on F-35: Delivery Impossible Without Resolving S-400
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that President Trump has given political clearance for F-35 delivery, but the S-400 issue and legal hurdles must be overcome.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that while there is political will regarding Turkey's return to the F-35 program, deliveries cannot be made until the S-400 issue is resolved and legal obstacles are removed.
Statements During Visit to Greece
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio evaluated Turkey's status in the F-35 program in an interview with the Kathimerini newspaper during his visit to Greece.
Political Will and Legal Hurdles
Rubio emphasized that the administration of US President Donald Trump is politically open to Turkey acquiring F-35s again, but there are still legal hurdles that have not yet been removed.
Reminding that Turkey had previously paid for certain aircraft, Rubio noted that deliveries could take place if strict conditions required by the National Defense Authorization Act are met.
Status of the S-400 Issue
It was stated that the main obstacle facing Turkey is the S-400 air defense system purchased from Russia, and options remain on the table between Ankara and Washington to find a solution to this matter.