President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed satisfaction with his meeting with Donald Trump, telling reporters aboard his flight back to Turkey that the visit was “excellent” and undimmed by “distortions.” He described his discussions with the U.S. President as friendly, constructive, and results-oriented, noting that his personal rapport with Trump “from the very beginning” has continued and could positively influence Turkish-American relations. While stressing that no single meeting can resolve every issue, Erdoğan said the latest contact had produced “substantive progress on many fronts.”
Regional posture: Sovereignty, resources, and restraint
Asked about ties with Egypt and Libya, and how any rapprochement might affect relations with Israel and Greece, Erdoğan said Turkey has “no intention of challenging anyone’s sovereignty,” but is determined to protect its rights and interests. He reiterated Ankara’s position on Mediterranean resources: Turkey will take “its fair share” and cooperate with neighbors on the basis of mutual benefit. In his view, Turkey’s firm stance is prompting the broader region to reassess positions, with Ankara now “a decisive voice at the negotiating table.”
Cyprus: Federation “off the table”
On Cyprus, Erdoğan was unequivocal. The federation model is “closed” as far as Ankara is concerned, he said, adding that Turkish Cypriots will not accept minority status on the island. The only realistic outcome, he argued, is recognition of “two separate states.” He noted that this position was set out clearly at the UN General Assembly and would not change. Looking ahead to the elections in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, he expressed hope for a positive result and pledged that Turkey, as “motherland and guarantor,” will never leave Turkish Cypriots on their own.