The Trump administration is proceeding with a proposed arms sale valued at $700 million to Turkey, a NATO ally, which has raised concerns due to Turkey's ties with Russia and various groups in the Middle East. Representative Gregory Meeks, the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, indicated that the State Department informed him of its decision to bypass Congress regarding the sale, which primarily includes fighter jets.
Rep. Meeks stated that the State Department did not provide justification for its decision, did not invoke emergency authority, and had not adequately briefed him on the implications of the sale for U.S.-Turkey relations and regional security issues. Turkey's acquisition of the Russian S-400 air defense system in 2019 has been a point of contention, as it is viewed as a threat to NATO's intelligence and operational integrity.
The U.S. previously sanctioned Turkey for its purchase of the S-400 and excluded it from the F-35 fighter jet program. Concerns have been raised about the potential intelligence risks posed by Turkey's possession of both the S-400 and the F-35.
A State Department spokesperson defended the arms sale, emphasizing Turkey's role as a strong NATO member. The proposed sale is seen as beneficial for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, particularly with Turkey set to host the NATO summit in 2026. The arms deal is also viewed as crucial for Turkey's development of its KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet, which relies on U.S.-made engines.
Some U.S. lawmakers have expressed their opposition to the arms sale, citing Turkey's destabilizing actions in the region and its refusal to comply with sanctions against Russia. A spokesperson for the Turkish government did not respond to requests for comment.