Turkey Announces Negotiations for Additional Purchase of Russian "S-400" Missile Systems

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu announced that Turkey is negotiating to purchase another batch of Russian "S-400" missile systems. Çavuşoğlu stated that Turkish authorities, including the Ministry of Defense, are currently discussing the acquisition of a second regiment of these air defense systems with the Russian side. In this context, he criticized the United States' stance on the "S-400" missile systems deal, emphasizing that Ankara needs these missile systems, which it has already purchased, and it is wrong for Washington to criticize this deal. The minister also pointed out that if the United States wants Turkey to buy weapons from them, they should offer them at reasonable prices and better terms. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken had urged the Turkish foreign minister to abandon the Russian "S-400" missile systems; however, Çavuşoğlu reiterated that the deal with Russia is a "done deal," reminding him once again why Turkey purchased the S-400. The system has been bought, and the matter is now closed. In another regard, the Turkish foreign minister confirmed that Turkey's sale of combat drones to Ukraine is not directed against Russia. Çavuşoğlu stated that Ankara maintains good relations with both countries, despite the tense situation in the Black Sea region.