Will Trump Give Turkey Engines for its Jets and F-35s?
Greece’s efforts to block potential US initiatives regarding the supply of engines crucial for F-35 and KAAN fighter jets to Türkiye have been thwarted by US President Donald Trump.
The Kathimerini newspaper’s front-page headline, “Difficult Intervention in the F-35 Process,” highlighted that despite Greece’s intense lobbying efforts in Washington, Trump’s decisive and accelerating stance prevailed. According to the report, concerns about President Trump’s reaction before the November midterm elections led some members of Congress to “restrain” their anti-Ankara stances and refrain from obstructing the process.
It was noted that the “Greek Friendship Group” within the US Congress, which aims to defend Greece’s interests, is facing one of its most challenging political tests since its inception. This group, considered one of the most effective structures against Türkiye since 1996, is now beginning to lose its influence due to both political pressure and internal disagreements. It was also emphasized that the possibility of Trump greenlighting a new defense cooperation process with Turkey has shaken the balance in Congress, causing a rift regarding Turkey and weakening the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at supporting Greece.
DISAPPOINTMENT IN THE LOBBY
In an analysis titled “Is America’s 250th Birthday a Gift to Türkiye?” written by Eddie Zemenides, Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC), which forms the backbone of the Greek lobby in Washington, and published in Kathimerini, Athens’ disappointment with the pro-Turkey sentiment in Washington is clearly expressed.
The analysis argued that allowing potential defense initiatives targeting Türkiye to bypass Congressional oversight could represent a strategic loss for Athens. It noted that Türkiye, through these technologies, has both strengthened its defense industry and crossed a critical threshold in reducing its dependence on the US.
