Gerapetritis Reaffirms No Change on Turkey’s F-35 Ban: “Greece’s National Interests Are Non-Negotiable”

Addressing the Greek Parliament, Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis dismissed speculation about Turkey's possible return to the F-35 fighter jet program, stressing that U.S. legal restrictions remain fully in force. He also described Greek-American relations as being at their strongest point ever, highlighting Greece's strategic defense upgrades and unwavering commitment to safeguarding its national interests.

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis firmly rejected reports suggesting that the United States may be preparing to lift restrictions preventing Turkey from rejoining the F-35 fighter jet program, emphasizing that no such decision currently exists.

Speaking during a parliamentary debate, Gerapetritis stated that “at this stage, there is absolutely no issue regarding the lifting of the restrictions preventing Turkey from acquiring F-35 aircraft.”

He noted that the legal restrictions imposed under U.S. legislation remain fully in effect and that any change would require a new decision by the U.S. Congress.

“Greek-American Relations Are at Their Strongest Ever”

Responding to concerns raised over recent media reports, Gerapetritis stressed that Greece’s foreign policy is guided by strategic diplomacy rather than speculation.

“Greek-American relations are, beyond any doubt, at the strongest point they have ever been. They are built on mutual trust, credibility and a partnership that benefits both countries.”

The Foreign Minister argued that Greece’s diplomatic standing has significantly strengthened over recent years, allowing Athens to advance its national interests through robust international partnerships.

From Exclusion in 2019 to Joining the F-35 Program

Gerapetritis highlighted the dramatic shift in Greece’s defense position since 2019.

At that time:

• Greece was not participating in the F-35 program.
• Turkey remained an official partner in the project.

Today, the situation has fundamentally changed.

Greece has already secured approval to purchase 20 F-35 fifth-generation fighter aircraft, with an option for an additional 20 aircraft.

The first deliveries are expected in 2029, with the aircraft scheduled to be stationed at Andravida Air Base, significantly strengthening Greece’s air power and long-term defense capabilities.

At the same time, Greece is modernizing 83 F-16 fighter jets to the advanced Viper configuration, further enhancing the operational capabilities of the Hellenic Air Force.

Meanwhile, Turkey remains excluded from the F-35 program following U.S. sanctions imposed after Ankara’s acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system.

“Foreign Policy Is Not Conducted Through Media Reports”

Addressing speculation that President Donald Trump could adopt a more favorable stance toward Ankara, Gerapetritis dismissed concerns over unverified reports.

“Foreign policy is not conducted through newspaper headlines or media reports. It is conducted through diplomacy, substance and strong international relationships.”

He stressed that Greece closely monitors all international developments while actively utilizing its diplomatic influence to safeguard national interests.

“Our National Rights Are Absolutely Non-Negotiable”

Concluding his remarks, the Foreign Minister delivered a clear message regarding Greece’s foreign policy principles.

“For us, Greece’s national rights are absolutely non-negotiable. We exhaust every available means to defend and promote them.”

He added:

“The Greek people can be confident that, under the current government, Greece will continue to pursue a strong foreign policy supported by robust national defense.”

The debate over Turkey’s potential return to the F-35 program extends well beyond military procurement. It reflects the broader strategic balance in the Eastern Mediterranean and NATO’s evolving security architecture. Greece’s confirmed participation in the F-35 program significantly enhances its long-term air superiority and strengthens its role as one of Washington’s key security partners in Southeastern Europe. At the same time, Turkey’s continued exclusion remains tied to U.S. congressional legislation and broader concerns over Ankara’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 system. While periodic reports suggest a possible thaw in U.S.-Turkey defense relations, any policy shift would require congressional approval, making the issue as much a matter of American domestic politics as of regional geopolitics.

Source: pagenews.gr