Kremlin Denies Claims of Türkiye Returning S-400 Missiles to Russia
The Kremlin has firmly rejected reports suggesting that Türkiye intends to return S-400 missile systems to Russia. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that this topic was not discussed during last week’s meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.
Kremlin’s Response to S-400 Missile System Claims
Peskov addressed the media during a news briefing in Moscow, clarifying that the meeting on the sidelines of the International Peace and Trust Forum did not include discussions about the S-400 systems. The Kremlin’s denial comes amid circulating rumors about Türkiye’s intentions.
Background on the S-400 Acquisition
In 2017, Türkiye secured a deal with Russia, acquiring four S-400 air defense systems for approximately $2.5 billion. The purchase generated significant controversy, particularly from the United States, which urged Ankara to opt for its American-made Patriot missile systems instead.
Impact on Türkiye-U.S. Relations
The U.S. response to Türkiye’s S-400 acquisition was severe. Following Ankara’s refusal to replace the Russian systems, Washington excluded Türkiye from the F-35 fighter jet program. This exclusion significantly impacted Türkiye’s defense partnerships and military capabilities.
Rumors of Returning the S-400 Systems
Recent media reports suggested that Türkiye might consider returning the S-400 systems to improve its relations with the United States. These reports claim such a move could facilitate Türkiye’s reintegration into the F-35 program.
- Date of purchase: 2017
- Cost of S-400 systems: $2.5 billion
- U.S. response: Removed Türkiye from F-35 program
The ongoing geopolitical ramifications surrounding the S-400 systems continue to shape Türkiye’s defense strategy and foreign relations. As Ankara navigates its position, the Kremlin remains firm in its stance regarding the current status of the missile systems.
