US Midterm Results Deal Blow to Turkey's F-35 Hopes and Defense Ambitions

The Democratic victory in the United States midterm elections could significantly hinder Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in advancing crucial defense deals with Washington, most notably the acquisition of F-35 stealth fighter jets. Former Turkish Ambassador Selim Kuneralp warned that the shift in the balance of power within Congress undermines Ankara's prospects of securing legislative approval for military procurement.

In a statement published on social media, Kuneralp addressed the geopolitical fallout of the US electoral shift. "The ruling party must abandon any hope, if any remains, for weapons deals to be approved by Congress, starting with the F-35s," he wrote. He also expressed concern over the domestic Kaan fifth-generation fighter jet project, which relies heavily on American engines requiring export approvals.

Strategic Reorientation Toward Europe

Following the legislative setback in Washington, the veteran diplomat urged Ankara to recalibrate its foreign policy and look toward the European Union. Kuneralp pointed to the European Commission's annual report on Turkey, which outlines key areas of contention, including the modernization of the customs union, visa liberalization for Turkish citizens, and regional tensions in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean.

Kuneralp, who previously served as Turkey's ambassador to South Korea, Sweden, and the World Trade Organization, called on the Turkish leadership to seriously review the European report. Analysts note that these developments underscore Ankara's narrowing diplomatic maneuvering room as it seeks to modernize its military capabilities.