Erdogan snubbed as US cancels F-35 warplane deal following 'Kremlin interference'

The announcement comes as the US discovered that Turkey had purchased a missile defence system from Russia. Amid escalating tensions between the US and Russia, Washington has admitted that it cannot “coexist with a Russian intelligence-collection platform”. In a statement released from White House spokeswoman, Stephanie Grisham, Washington added that it is now “impossible” for Turkey to participate in the fighter jet deal.

The statement read: “Unfortunately, Turkey’s decision to purchase the Russian S-400 air defence system renders its continued involvement with the F-35 impossible.

“The United States has been actively working with Turkey to provide air defence solutions to meet its legitimate air defence needs, and this administration has made multiple offers to move Turkey to the front of the line to receive the US Patriot air defence system.

“Turkey has been a longstanding and trusted partner and Nato ally for over 65 years, but accepting the S-400 undermines the commitments all Nato allies made to each other to move away from Russian systems.”

Turkey, however, criticised Washington’s decision as Ankara labelled it “unfair” and detrimental to the alliance of the two countries.

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Despite being offered the US’ own Patriot missile defence system, Turkey went purchased the S-400 system from Russia.

In doing so, Turkey ran counter to a NATO pledge whereby the participating nations would not adopt Russian systems.

Ms Grisham added: “This will have detrimental impacts on Turkish interoperability with the Alliance.”

Despite the rising tensions between the US and Turkey following the decision, Ms Grisham insisted that the US “still greatly values” its relationship with Ankara.

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Ms Grisham also added that Washington would “continue to cooperate with Turkey extensively, mindful of constraints due to the presence of the S-400 system in Turkey” despite the recent decision.

Despite Turkey’s recent move, the country still remains a key partner in Nato.

Ankara is not only a ket ally to the US but the country itself also has the second-largest army in the Nato.

Turkey has also played a key role in the Syria conflict, providing arms and military support to rebel groups against the Government.

source: express.co.uk