Erdogan: Trump can stop sanctions against Turkey over arms purchase from Russia

(Patria) – U.S. President Donald Trump has the authority to stop sanctions against Turkey over the purchase of the S-400 defense system, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday.

The Turkish president's comments come two days after NATO member Turkey received the first part of its purchase of the advanced S-400 defense system, despite Washington's warnings that the move could trigger U.S. sanctions.

Trump expressed understanding for Turkey's position when meeting with Erdogan at the G20 summit in Japan last month, saying that Turkey purchased the S-400 from Russia because the previous U.S. administration did not want to sell them the Patriot defense system.

'I think Trump does not share the same opinion as those around him, which he showed in front of all the world's media. The purchase of the S-400 does not mean we are preparing for war. We are trying to guarantee peace and our national security.'

Despite Trump's stance, the U.S. administration stated last week that it plans to take action regarding the S-400 purchase.

The U.S. administration's stance is evident in Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's statement on Sunday, 'the law requires sanctions, and I am sure we will enforce the law, and President Trump will also act according to the law.'

U.S. officials have also hinted that, in addition to sanctions, Turkey could be excluded from the F-35 fighter jet program, which in practice means it would no longer be part of the production process nor would it be able to acquire these aircraft.

The Pentagon believes that the S-400 would pose a threat to U.S. fighter jets if they operate in the same area. Erdogan confirmed that Turkey ordered more than 100 F-35 aircraft produced by Lockheed Martin and expects Washington to honor the order.

The Turkish president also said that Turkey still wants to purchase Patriot systems from the U.S., and that the two countries should intensify trade and 'overall defense cooperation,' writes Euronews.