Turkey and Russia have been both friends on energy and arms deals, and enemies in multiple Middle Eastern wars. Had the Americans sold Turkey a Patriot missile defense system, Erdogan said, he “would not have had to buy S-400s.”Asked if Turkey’s actions had been worth the frictions caused with the United States, Erdogan appeared unapologetic. Highlighting the fallout with the United States, not the geopolitical standoffs, seemed to take precedence Wednesday for both leaders. At Wednesday’s meeting, Putin praised both energy deals and said the alignment with Russia was insulating Turkey from high gas prices in Europe. While Erdogan has been seeking to repair relations with the United States and the European Union, he acknowledged recently a coolness from President Joe Biden.

Source: bd News24 September 30, 2021 11:03 UTC