Relations between key NATO allies have reached a freezing point. The United States has imposed long-awaited sanctions on Turkey. The reason is the purchase of Russian S-400 missile defense systems by Turkey.
Ankara called the move by the United States a huge mistake and called on Washington to reconsider the imposition of “unfair sanctions.” It is said that there is a risk that sanctions will inevitably damage the mutual relations between the two countries. In addition, Turkey threatened unspecified retaliation.
The apple of contention was the Russian S-400 air defense missile system, which the Turkish army had purchased for its armament. The United States allegedly had no choice but to apply this type of sanction. Although Turkey acquired Russian missiles in the middle of last year, the United States tried to persuade Ankara to withdraw from the transaction. Unsuccessfully.
The Donald Trump administration has informed Turkey of the possibility of imposing sanctions. However, Ankara rejected Washington’s requests and pressure. According to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Turkey has threatened the security of US military technology and the soldiers themselves with their purchase. However, Ankara denies the accusation.
