Putin Warns Erdogan Over Possible Transfer of U.S. Weapons to Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly warned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan against transferring U.S.-made missiles and other weapons held in Turkey’s military stockpiles to Ukraine, saying such a move could seriously damage relations between Moscow and Ankara.
According to Russia’s RT television, the warning came after U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly asked Erdogan to provide Ukraine with some of the American-made missiles and other military equipment held by the Turkish Armed Forces.
The reported request comes as Ukraine faces growing shortages of weapons and ammunition, while the United States has expended significant portions of some of its weapons stocks during the conflict involving Iran.
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Moscow reportedly views any transfer of Turkish-held U.S. weapons to Ukraine as a major escalation. Putin’s warning highlights the increasingly delicate balance Ankara is trying to maintain between its NATO ally Washington, Ukraine, and Russia.
If Turkey were to approve the transfer, the move could further strain the already complex relationship between Moscow and Ankara and potentially trigger a stronger Russian response.