# Trump Weighs Selling F-35s to Turkey, Raising NATO Summit Tensions *US President Donald Trump said Washington would consider selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, reversing a 2019 decision.* July 7, 2026 ยท World ## At a glance - US President Donald Trump signals potential F-35 sale to Turkey. - Turkey was removed from the F-35 program in 2019 over Russian system purchase. - Announcement made during NATO summit in Ankara. US President Donald Trump announced that the United States might consider selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, a significant shift from the 2019 decision to remove Turkey from the F-35 program due to its purchase of a Russian defense system. Speaking alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, Trump highlighted the F-35 as 'the best plane by far' and indicated it was a matter under consideration. ## Background and Context Turkey was originally part of the F-35 program, both as a buyer and a manufacturer of certain components. However, its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defense system in 2019 led the US to exclude Turkey from the program, citing security concerns and potential risks to the F-35's advanced technology. ## Significance for NATO The potential sale of F-35s to Turkey could have significant implications for NATO. The alliance has been divided over Turkey's purchase of Russian military equipment, and Trump's announcement may signal a shift in US policy towards accommodating Turkey's defense needs while maintaining alliance cohesion. ## Implications for Bangladesh For Bangladesh, this development underscores the complex dynamics of international defense sales and alliances. As a country that maintains diplomatic relations with both the US and Russia, Bangladesh observes these shifts closely, understanding the potential impact on regional security and defense partnerships. ## What Happens Next The announcement by Trump suggests that further discussions and negotiations are likely to take place between the US and Turkey regarding the potential sale of F-35s. This could involve addressing the security concerns that initially led to Turkey's removal from the program and finding a mutually acceptable solution. ## Sources - BSS --- Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/world/trump-considers-f-35-sale-to-turkey