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Source: Dubai – Arabia.net
The Pentagon condemned Turkey’s test of the Russian “S-400” system, emphasizing that this step does not fulfill Ankara’s obligations as a Washington ally, and also puts security relations at risk.
“We have been clear and firm in our position: operating the S-400 system does not meet Turkey’s obligations as an ally of the United States and NATO. We are opposed to Turkey testing this system, which carries risks with serious consequences for our relationship. security, “the United States Department of Defense said in a statement. “.
He mentioned that Washington has suspended Turkey’s participation in the program to manufacture F-35 fighters due to this problem, considering that the issue of the “S-400” system remains “a major obstacle to progress in other parts of the bilateral relationship. “between the two countries.
Washington had repeatedly threatened Ankara with sanctions if the system began operating. But Turkish President Erdogan vowed to continue the experiments and played down the criticism from the United States.
On Friday, Erdogan confirmed that his country last week carried out the first test of the controversial Russian S-400 missile defense system.
“This is correct,” Erdogan told reporters in Istanbul after posting information a week ago indicating that the Turkish army had carried out the first test of the system. “The tests have been carried out and will continue.” “We will not ask the Americans for permission,” he added, responding to criticism from Washington.
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