US envoy sees key issues with Türkiye resolved within four to six months

US Special Envoy for Syria and Ambassador to Türkiye, Tom Barrack, projected optimism on Friday that major unresolved issues between Washington and Ankara could be resolved within four to six months. Speaking at a Milken Institute conference in the UAE, Barrack described the US-Türkiye relationship as strong and stable, underpinned by an "exceptional bond" between Presidents Donald Trump and Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Addressing the F-16, F-35, and Sanctions Impasse

Barrack directly addressed the prolonged disputes over US sanctions under CAATSA and the stalled sales of F-16 and F-35 fighter jets, noting the debate has lasted a decade. He revealed that President Trump viewed the sanctions as "pointless" and was fully aware of Türkiye's indigenous defense production and its drone exports to Ukraine. While Türkiye's four purchased F-35 jets remain undelivered in a hangar, Barrack highlighted that Ankara has since bought Eurofighter Typhoons and remains a vital participant in the F-35 program.

Criticism of NATO's Contradictions and Long-Term Strategy

The envoy criticized what he called "madness" within NATO, where Europe expects Türkiye's protection while simultaneously blocking its access to advanced weapon systems over concerns regarding Russia. He also lamented short-term US political cycles, contrasting them with the long-term planning of rivals like China and Russia, and warned that technological advantage and strategic patience are now essential in geopolitics.

Broader Regional Role and Energy Cooperation

Barrack underscored Türkiye's critical role in countering the Assad regime in Syria, noting US support for the new Syrian administration. He highlighted the strategic importance of future energy corridors linking Türkiye to Syria and Azerbaijan, and pointed to the existing LNG agreement between the two nations as increasingly critical. On regional diplomacy, he expressed hope for the eventual reopening of the Türkiye-Armenia border following recent peace efforts between Azerbaijan and Armenia.