Congress Members Raise Alarm Over Proposed Turkey Fighter Jet Deal

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Four Greek American Republican members of Congress have voiced opposition to a proposed U.S. sale of F110 fighter jet engines to Turkey, warning that the move could undermine regional stability and complicate efforts to restrict Ankara’s re-entry into the F-35 program. Reps. Gus Bilirakis, Nicole Malliotakis, Mike Haridopolos, and Jimmy Patronis issued a joint statement expressing “deep concern” over reports that the Trump administration is preparing to advance the sale.

In their statement, the lawmakers argued that Turkey continues to pursue policies that destabilize the Eastern Mediterranean, citing its maritime claims, ongoing occupation of northern Cyprus, and increasingly adversarial posture toward key U.S. partners. They also pointed to Ankara’s ties with Hamas and its refusal, as a NATO member, to impose sanctions on Russia following the invasion of Ukraine, arguing these factors raise questions about Turkey’s reliability as an ally.

The members of Congress further urged that Turkey not be allowed back into the F-35 program unless it fully complies with the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which led to U.S. sanctions after Ankara acquired Russia’s S-400 air defense system. They said they are actively engaging with both the administration and House leadership to seek further clarity on the proposed engine transfer.

The debate in Washington comes amid broader geopolitical recalibration involving Turkey’s relations with the United States and its NATO role. The shifting diplomatic tone toward Ankara comes alongside parallel developments in Turkey’s religious diplomacy, as talks regarding the status of Halki Seminary seem to have taken a sudden turn in favor of reopening the institution, which has remained closed for five centuries after being shuttered by the Turkish government.

Previously, the UOJ reported that CHP officials were accused of extorting the Istanbul Greek Orthodox Foundation.