Erdogan and Trump Discuss Global Concerns in Their First Official Call

Turkish President Erdogan and U.S. President Trump discussed the Russia-Ukraine war, Syria’s stability, and U.S. sanctions on Turkey in their first official call since Trump returned to office.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan engaged in his inaugural official call with President Donald Trump since Trump’s reelection, discussing critical matters such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the situation in Syria. This dialogue also focused on the potential lifting of U.S. sanctions against Turkey, according to the Turkish Presidential Communications Directorate’s announcement.

During the conversation, President Erdogan expressed his support for Trump’s initiative to conclude the enduring Russia-Ukraine conflict, stressing the importance of enhanced collaboration between Ankara and Washington. Additionally, he raised concerns about Syria, underscoring the necessity for restoring stability in the nation that has faced war devastation. He noted that U.S. sanctions hinder crucial financial aid from regional nations eager to assist Syria’s new Islamist administration.

Ankara’s report notably omitted Turkey’s continued call for an end to the U.S. partnership with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), linked to a Kurdish faction opposing Turkey. This omission may signify Turkey’s current diplomatic pursuits aiming to negotiate with the Kurdistan Workers Party to conclude their long-standing insurgency against the Turkish government.

Erdogan also urged for the cessation of sanctions imposed by the U.S. Congress in connection with Turkey’s defense sector, particularly concerning its acquisition of Russian S-400 missile batteries and military actions in northern Syria in 2019. At the time of this report, the White House had not provided any statement regarding the call.

During Trump’s first term, the relationship between Trump and Erdogan was characterized by both warmth and tensions, influenced by issues such as the detention of an American pastor in Turkey. Trump recently described Erdogan as, “a friend of mine. He’s a guy I like, respect. I think he respects me also.” He noted Erdogan’s restraint concerning the Kurdish people, after previously requesting Erdogan not to engage in hostilities against them.

In summary, President Erdogan’s first official conversation with President Trump post-election revolved around the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, the Syrian situation, and U.S. sanctions on Turkey. Erdogan’s plea for U.S.-Turkey collaboration hints at a diplomatic effort to address complex regional issues, including the ongoing partnership between the U.S. and the SDF. Their past relationship, marked by contention and camaraderie, continues to evolve amid current geopolitical challenges.

Original Source: www.al-monitor.com