Turkey Seeks Path Back to U.S. Favor

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan aims to persuade U.S. to lift sanctions and re-admit Turkey into the F-35 program amid strained relations. His visit follows a pivotal call between Erdogan and Trump, against backdrop of Turkish political unrest and shifting U.S. policies towards Russia.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is visiting Washington, urging U.S. officials to lift sanctions on Turkey and reintegrate the country into a key fighter-jet program. The visit aims to thaw relations under President Donald Trump, catalyzed by a significant phone call with Turkish President Erdogan.

The meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio comes amid domestic tensions in Turkey, with widespread protests following the imprisonment of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. The U.S.-Turkey relationship has recently shifted from strategic partners to a more transactional interaction, especially under the previous Biden administration.

Turkey's removal from the F-35 program was rooted in its purchase of Russian S-400 defense systems, a contentious issue. Fidan plans to emphasize lifting CAATSA sanctions during his U.S. meetings. Ankara hopes recent dialogues between Erdogan and Trump might positively impact ongoing negotiations, potentially addressing regional security issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)