Trump Praises Erdogan's Steadfast Loyalty Amidst Renewed Diplomatic Engagement

Washington D.C. – Former President Donald Trump recently underscored the enduring nature of his relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, highlighting Erdogan’s loyalty during a period Trump described as his “exile.” The comment, shared on social media by Armand Domalewski, points to a personal bond that has reportedly remained strong even through Trump's post-presidency political challenges. This sentiment emerged during a high-profile meeting between the two leaders, marking Erdogan's first White House visit in six years.

The meeting, held in late September 2025, saw both leaders express mutual admiration, with Trump referring to Erdogan as a “highly respected man” and a “tough man” he always liked. This personal rapport is seen as a cornerstone of their diplomatic engagement, allowing for discussions on complex issues that have historically strained US-Turkey relations. The two leaders aimed to leverage their personal ties to advance shared interests and address global challenges.

Key agenda items during their discussions included the potential sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, a contentious issue since Ankara's acquisition of Russian S-400 missile systems led to its removal from the F-35 program in 2019. Trump hinted at the possibility of lifting sanctions against Turkey's defense industries, stating that if the meeting went well, such actions could occur “almost immediately.” This signals a potential shift in US policy regarding military cooperation with its NATO ally.

Discussions also touched upon Turkey’s continued trade with Russia, particularly regarding oil purchases, which Trump urged Erdogan to cease to support Ukraine. Despite this, the leaders also explored cooperation on energy, with a significant deal for US liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports to Turkey reportedly formalized. The leaders also engaged in extensive talks about the conflict in Gaza and the war in Ukraine, with Trump viewing Erdogan as a potential mediator given his relationships with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The renewed engagement between Trump and Erdogan signals a strategic alignment on several fronts, particularly concerning Syria, where both leaders have embraced the post-Assad regime in Damascus. Experts suggest that this "bromance" could reset US-Turkey relations, which had been strained under the previous US administration. The meeting concluded with optimism for future cooperation, emphasizing the importance of their personal connection in navigating geopolitical complexities.