US keeps Persuading Turkey Not to Buy Russian Missile Systems: Pentagon

Washington keeps persuading Turkey not to buy air and missile defense systems from Russia, US Department of Defense Spokesperson Johnny Michael told TASS, commenting on the recent Turkish-Russian deal on S-400 systems.


"We have relayed our concerns to Turkish officials regarding the purchase of the S-400," the Pentagon spokesman said. "A NATO interoperable missile defense system remains the best option to defend Turkey from the full range of threats in its region."

"We have an open dialogue on this issue, and have emphasized the importance of maintaining NATO interoperability on any major defense systems procurements," the US official continued, TASS news agency reported.

He said that Turkey and Russia have "robust and significant" defense-trade and military-sales relationship.

"Turkey continues to pursue anti-missile systems from NATO Allies, including the US Patriot System, for its broader, long-term air defense needs. The United States is committed to expediting the delivery of equipment purchased by Turkey, when possible," the Pentagon spokesman said.

Earlier in the day, Russia and Turkey signed a loan agreement on Turkey’s purchase of Russian S-400 systems, Haberturk TV said on Friday. According to the Hurriyet daily, Ankara will pay part of the sum from its own funds and will contract a Russian loan for the rest. Notably, the loan will be in rubles.
 (Tasnim)
 30/12/17