Turkish President Erdogan links Sweden’s inclusion NATO membership with F-16 jets fighter deal

ANKARA — After delaying the approval of Sweden’s application to join NATO, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan revealed his demands in exchange for Sweden’s accession to the alliance.

Erdogan claimed that he had fulfilled what was required and submitted Sweden’s request to the Turkish parliament, although a vote on the matter has been delayed. In return, he is waiting for approval for the purchase of F-16 fighter jets.

Directly addressing the US Biden Administration, Erdogan emphasized his expectation for prompt approval from the US Congress for Turkey’s request to acquire F-16 fighter jets. This request comes as part of the negotiation process linked to Sweden’s NATO membership.

The backdrop of the delay in Sweden’s NATO application centers around the Turkish regime’s insistence on the extradition of individuals perceived as opponents of the regime, currently residing in Sweden. The impasse underscores the diplomatic challenges and geopolitical considerations entwined in the NATO membership process.