Erdogan and Putin Seek to Deepen their Military Ties

• 04.09.2019, 10:21
•  Region,  World

kremlin.ru

Turkish President Recep Tayyip on Monday arrived in Russia for his third visit this year, highlighting the increasingly close cooperation between the two countries and Turkey's willingness to defy the United States, DW reports.

Erdogan's visit comes on the heels of warnings from US Vice President Mike Pence against purchasing Russia's S-400 air defense missile systems. Pence said Turkey was risking its NATO membership and its participation in the F-35 fighter program by failing to heed Washington's demand to cancel the contract with Russia.

Russia and Turkey have closely coordinated moves on Syria, where they struck a deal last year to create a security zone in the northern province of Idlib.

Erdogan said that Turkey won't submit to pressure over the Russian agreement.

"On the issue of the S-400s, we have determined our road map, we have taken steps," Erdogan said.

"Those who tell us to give up our plans, those who make recommendations do not know us. If we have made a contract, if we have reached a deal, then this business is finished. This is our sovereign right, this is our decision."