Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described the 2026 Ankara NATO Summit as a “historic” success, saying the gathering marked an important step for the alliance during a period of growing security challenges. He also expressed optimism about Türkiye’s defence cooperation with the United States, particularly regarding the long-awaited F-35 fighter jet programme.
Speaking at a press conference after the summit, Erdogan said Türkiye had successfully hosted the NATO meeting for the second time in 22 years. It was also the first time the country’s capital, Ankara, hosted the alliance’s summit.
Erdogan Calls Summit a Historic Milestone
Erdogan said the summit concluded successfully and would have a lasting impact on NATO’s future. He stressed that the meeting took place when Euro-Atlantic security faced serious challenges.
“We have successfully concluded our NATO summit, which we hosted in our country for the second time in 22 years and for the first time in our capital, Ankara,” Erdogan said.
He added that the summit would strengthen cooperation among NATO members while helping shape the alliance’s common future.
“This historic summit, which we hosted at a time when Euro-Atlantic security is being tested, has been conducted in a manner that will shape our common future,” he said.
Erdogan Optimistic About F-35 Fighter Jets
The Turkish president also discussed defence relations with the United States. He said US President Donald Trump had taken a “positive approach” toward Türkiye’s participation in the F-35 fighter jet programme.
According to Erdogan, he remains hopeful that Türkiye will eventually receive the advanced aircraft.
“Mr. Trump actually has a positive approach toward Türkiye on the F-35 issue. Hopefully, when the F-35s are delivered to Türkiye, the whole world will say, ‘America kept its promise’,” he said.
Furthermore, Erdogan stated that US sanctions imposed on Türkiye had largely been lifted, creating a more positive atmosphere for defence cooperation.
Support for KAAN Fighter Jet Programme
Besides the F-35 programme, Erdogan revealed that discussions also covered the supply of F110 jet engines for Türkiye’s indigenous KAAN fighter aircraft.
He explained that he had previously raised the issue directly with President Trump.
“I had discussed the issue of these engines with Mr. Trump before. He took a positive approach. Hopefully, there will not be any problems,” Erdogan said.
The proposed engine deal would further strengthen Türkiye’s efforts to develop its domestic defence industry.
Call for Peace in Ukraine
Erdogan also addressed ongoing global conflicts during his remarks. He called for renewed diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, which has now entered its fifth year.
He warned that prolonged fighting continued to cause heavy human losses and stressed that diplomacy remained the best path forward.
“There are no losers in a just peace. I would like to reiterate that we are ready to bring the parties together once again in Türkiye,” he said.
He reaffirmed Türkiye’s willingness to facilitate future peace negotiations between the conflicting sides.
Concerns Over Gaza and Regional Stability
The Turkish president also discussed developments in the Middle East. He condemned Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and said the humanitarian situation remained deeply concerning.
“Occupation and oppression continue unabated,” Erdogan said.
Moreover, he emphasized the importance of preserving stability across the region, especially amid growing geopolitical tensions.
Türkiye Reaffirms Commitment to Strait of Hormuz Security
Erdogan highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz for regional and global stability. He said Türkiye would continue supporting efforts to prevent further escalation.
“We are doing everything we can and will continue to do so,” he said.
He also stressed that every effort should be made to ensure the Strait of Hormuz does not become another theatre of war.
Summit Highlights Defence and Regional Cooperation
The Ankara NATO Summit concluded with a strong focus on defence cooperation, alliance unity, and regional security. Erdogan presented the meeting as an important milestone for NATO while expressing confidence about Türkiye’s future role within the alliance.
At the same time, he highlighted progress in defence discussions with the United States, renewed support for diplomatic solutions to international conflicts, and Türkiye’s continued commitment to regional stability.
