Eu Day Light

US President Donald Trump answered reporters’ questions following his meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the Oval Office.

Speaking about Türkiye, NATO, and the Russia–Ukraine War, Trump used highly complimentary remarks regarding President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Trump said of Erdoğan: “He is a great leader, a very strong personality. He loves Türkiye and is doing a very good job. I also love Türkiye and respect him.”

Highlighting Erdoğan’s role within NATO, Trump stated that Türkiye maintains strong cooperation with the alliance, adding: “Türkiye is one of NATO’s strong members.”

Trump also touched on defense industry and cooperation issues, noting that evaluations were being made regarding the sale of certain defense systems and engines to Türkiye, and said: “I will probably take some steps that will make Türkiye happy.”

Referring to the Russia–Ukraine War, Trump said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had demonstrated strong leadership, drew attention to the war’s casualties, and commented that “allies need to be braver.”