F-35 program

The article discusses U.S. President Trump's consideration of reinstating Turkey into the F-35 program after a diplomatic show of support during a NATO summit. It argues against this move, citing risks from Turkey's continued possession of the Russian S-400 air defense system, regional security concerns from Israel and Greece, and Turkey's reliance on Chinese telecommunications infrastructure.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu asked President Trump to address Turkish President Erdoğan's anti-Israel rhetoric and limit U.S. arms sales to Turkey ahead of the NATO summit. Trump is set to meet Erdoğan in Ankara, where discussions include a $700 million fighter jet engine deal and Turkey's potential re-entry into the F-35 program, despite its 2019 expulsion over Russian S-400 purchases.

Germany aims to expand defense-industrial cooperation with the United States by producing U.S. weapons systems or components under license in Germany, as stated by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. The move is part of a broader European effort to reduce transatlantic dependencies while maintaining NATO ties, with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte endorsing Germany's defense investment plans and commitment to supporting Ukraine.

Turkey is implementing strict security measures for the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, including deploying police, air defenses, and restricting public gatherings. The summit, attended by leaders from all 32 NATO members including U.S. President Donald Trump, will address alliance unity amid Trump's criticism of allies and Turkey's independent actions within NATO, such as purchasing Russian missile systems and blocking Finland and Sweden's membership.

Turkey has implemented extensive security measures for the upcoming NATO summit, including deploying police, air defenses, and restricting public gatherings. The summit, hosted in Ankara from July 7–8, will address NATO unity amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s criticisms of allies and Turkey’s independent actions within the alliance.

Analysts from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies warn that including Turkey in the F-35 program is the wrong move. The article cites Russia, Hamas, and China as reasons why Turkey shouldn't receive the F-35.

U.S. Ambassador Tom Barrack defended his controversial remarks equating Israel with Hezbollah, emphasizing 'realism' and the 'peace through strength' policy. He denied shifting U.S. stance toward Hezbollah or Iran, citing the need for pragmatic Middle East strategies. Barrack also advocated for Turkey's reinstatement in the F-35 program despite its S-400 purchase.