President Trump is encountering resistance from Republican lawmakers and Israel as he considers allowing Turkey back into the F-35 fighter jet program during this week's NATO summit in Ankara. The president has indicated he plans to bring what he described as a gift bag to the gathering, but opposition has mounted over Turkey's continued possession of Russian air defense systems.
The dispute centers on Turkey's acquisition of the S-400 missile system from Russia, which led to the country's removal from the F-35 program during Trump's first term. The advanced fighter jet program involves sensitive technology that the United States and its allies have sought to protect from potential Russian intelligence gathering. Turkey had been both a customer and a manufacturing partner in the F-35 program before its expulsion.
Republican lawmakers have raised concerns about readmitting Turkey while it maintains Russian military equipment. Israel has also voiced opposition to the proposal, citing security concerns about advanced American military technology being in close proximity to Russian systems. The pushback represents a rare area of disagreement between Trump and members of his own party on foreign policy.
The timing of the dispute adds tension to a NATO summit already facing multiple challenges. The alliance continues to grapple with the ongoing war in Ukraine, despite Trump's earlier pledge to resolve the conflict quickly upon returning to office. Turkey's position as a NATO member hosting the summit while simultaneously maintaining ties to Russia through its S-400 purchase highlights the complex relationships within the alliance.
Trump arrives at the summit amid broader tensions with NATO allies over his approach to international engagement. The president has publicly expressed frustration with allied nations who declined to participate in military operations against Iran or contribute forces to efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. His discontent has extended to public criticism of several European leaders, which has strained relationships he once cultivated through personal diplomacy.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has called on all member states to present "clear, concrete and credible plans" to reach defense spending targets, noting that Trump fully expects allies to increase spending with urgency. The summit comes at a crucial moment for the alliance, which faces pressure to demonstrate commitment while addressing the unpredictability of Trump's leadership.
Trump's consideration of the F-35 reversal reflects his broader approach to NATO relations, where he has sought to reward allies he views as cooperative while pressuring others to increase defense spending and support American priorities. The president's willingness to move forward despite domestic opposition suggests he views improved relations with Turkey as a strategic priority, though the ultimate decision on F-35 access remains unclear as the summit begins.