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Erdogan insists that nothing can interfere with the purchase of defense systems like what Turkey has already purchased.
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The US, Turkey’s ally in NATO membership, has indicated that the purchase of batch Russia’s two S-400 defense systems will trigger new sanctions against Ankara.
Turkey has been sanctioned by the US over the purchase batch first the S-400, after Washington claimed that the Russian-made defense weapon did not conform to NATO standards and could pose a threat.
Although Turkey insists that the S-400 can be used independently of NATO systems, it was removed from the US’ F-35 stealth fighter jet program, and the country’s defense officials were sanctioned under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
Asked CBS News, Sunday (26/9/2021), whether Turkey will buy more S-400 from Russia, Erdogan replied; “Of course, of course, yes.”
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Despite threats from Washington, Erdogan in early August voiced his intention to acquire a second batch of S-400s from Russia. “Turkey has no doubts about the purchase,” Erdogan said at the time.
He also said that the issue would be discussed with Russian President Vladimir Putin when the two meet again. The meeting between the two presidents is scheduled to take place on September 29, 2021.
Commenting on the bilateral relations between Turkey and the United States, Erdogan said that work with the Joe Biden administration had not started very well. “Now is not the best moment in relations with the US,” he said.
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