Will Democrats block Trump’s push to deliver Turkey F-35s, lift sanctions?
Turkey is actively lobbying the Trump administration to secure F-35 fighter jets and remove defense sanctions imposed due to its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems. The effort faces potential legislative hurdles from Democrats in Congress who previously codified these restrictions.
Why it matters
This situation tests the limits of executive power in foreign policy versus congressional oversight regarding NATO defense cooperation and sanctions enforcement.
President Donald Trump (L) greets Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) upon his arrival at the White House in Washington on Sept. 25, 2025. — MEHMET ESER/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images ANKARA —Turkey is pressing forward with efforts to secure F-35 fighter jets and lift US defense sanctions, banking on President Donald Trump’s support and its strategic NATO value despite midterm Democratic gains in Congress.
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