US threatens Turkey with sanctions if they purchase S-400 missile systems from Russia
Washington has threatened Ankara with sanctions should they decide to purchase S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems from Moscow, RIA Novosti reports with reference to Haberturk newspaper.
According to an unnamed US official, the US has concerns over Turkey's purchase of Russian surface-to-air missile systems. Haberturk’s interlocutor explained that the Turkish government’s decision could "negatively influence the interoperability of NATO." The official assumed that considering the bill recently adopted by Congress, the United States could impose sanctions against Turkey.
"We want to help Turkey find a better alternative to meet its air defense needs," he said.
Earlier, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that the threats regarding the purchase of S-400 were unacceptable. The diplomat explained that Ankara had originally planned to purchase air defense systems from the allies but they "always had some problems." Because of this, Turkey instead signed an agreement with the Russian Federation in December last year.