DID Press: US President Donald Trump has dismissed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s reported opposition to a potential sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, saying no one can dictate what the United States chooses to sell.
Speaking to reporters, Trump described Turkey as a “great ally” and referred to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as a friend, praising his role in regional affairs, particularly in Syria.
Trump acknowledged that Ankara and the Israeli government have significant differences, but said strong ties between Washington and Ankara remain intact despite those disagreements.
He also described Turkey’s armed forces as “very large and powerful,” emphasizing the country’s importance as a regional military ally.
During a recent NATO summit, Trump said he would “certainly consider” restoring the F-35 sale to Turkey, describing Ankara as more loyal than some other U.S. partners.
Erdoğan has previously stated that Trump had taken a positive approach toward the possible delivery of F-35 fighter aircraft to Turkey.