The Kremlin confirmed on Friday that discussions are underway regarding whether Turkey can sell its Russian-made S-400 missile systems. The statement follows media reports suggesting Ankara plans to offload the weaponry to regain access to American F-35 fighter jets.
Since 2019, the United States has blocked Turkey from the F-35 fighter programme. The removal occurred after Ankara took delivery of the Russian air defence batteries, a transaction that Washington had explicitly warned against.
A prominent Turkish newspaper columnist reported that Ankara had already re-sold the air defence systems to an unnamed country in the Gulf region. The report did not cite a specific source for the claim.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov addressed the reports during a press briefing, confirming that Moscow remains in contact with Turkish officials regarding the situation.
Turkey originally purchased the advanced air defence network from Russia in 2017. The deal took place during a period of strained relations between Ankara and Washington, driven by disagreements over the conflict in Syria.
The purchase triggered intense criticism from fellow NATO members. It also prompted the United States to impose financial sanctions on Turkey, blocking the delivery of F-35 jets that Ankara had already funded.
The diplomatic situation appeared to shift this week during a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Trump stated he would consider inviting Turkey back into the fighter jet programme.
The American leader praised the improving relationship with Ankara, suggesting that Turkey had proven more loyal than other traditional allies. Trump also indicated that his administration intends to remove the existing sanctions.
Despite the political talks, Turkey cannot legally export the weapons without permission from Moscow. The original purchase agreement did not grant Ankara a re-export licence, meaning Russia retains final veto power over any potential sale.
