December 2019 - Turkey Special Weapons News

Turkey to implement deals with Libya in 2020: Erdogan Press TV 31 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Ankara will materialize its two agreements with the Libyan government on defense and maritime rights next year, a few days ahead of a parliament vote on deploying troops to the North African country.
Turkey mulling sending allied militants from Syria to Libya: Report Press TV 31 Dec 2019 -- Turkey is reportedly considering sending militants from an allied, anti-government militia group in Syria to Libya as part of planned military support for the government in Tripoli.
Turkish Defence Chief Denies Rift With Russia Over Libya Sputnik 31 Dec 2019 -- Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar has denied there were frictions between Ankara and Moscow over Libya amid Turkey's recent moves to send troops to Tripoli's aid.
Turkish police detain 94 people suspected of having ties to Daesh Press TV 30 Dec 2019 -- Turkish police have detained at least 94 people suspected of having ties to the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group amid nationwide raids aimed at preventing potential acts of terror ahead of New Year's celebrations.
Turkish government sending Libya deployment bill to parliament despite opposition's rejection Press TV 30 Dec 2019 -- The Turkish government is sending to parliament a bill mandating troop deployment to Libya despite the opposition's rejection, three days after Ankara announced the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) had officially requested military support from Turkey.
Turkey says it will not withdraw from observation posts in Syria's Idlib Press TV 29 Dec 2019 -- The Turkish defense minister says Turkey will not withdraw from its observation posts in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib as the Damascus government's ground forces have recently advanced in several areas during a large-scale counter-terrorism operation there.
Ankara Says Turkish Observation Posts in Syria's Idlib Will Respond to Any Attack Sputnik 29 Dec 2019 -- Turkish observation posts in the Syrian province of Idlib are ready to respond to any possible attack, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said on Sunday.
Turkey says Libya risks 'sliding into chaos' Press TV 29 Dec 2019 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, whose country is preparing for troop deployment to Libya, says the prolongation of the Libyan conflict could plunge the North African country into "chaos" and turn it into another Syria.
Libya's eastern government rejects security deal with Turkey Press TV 29 Dec 2019 -- Libya's eastern-based administration has rejected a security deal between the UN-backed government and Turkey, saying plans by Ankara to deploy troops to the North African country would be seen as a form of unwanted intervention.
Libya requested military support from Turkey: Erdogan's aide Press TV 28 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's communications director says Tripoli has asked for Ankara's military aid, stressing his country's commitment to agreements signed with the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA).
Italian Prime Minister Says Introduction of No-Fly Zone Over Libya Could End Conflict Sputnik 28 Dec 2019 -- The Libyan crisis could be settled by introducing a no-fly zone over Libya as an option, but not through military intervention, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said on Saturday.
'Russia Rejects Deployment of Turkish Troops to Libya' Peskov teleSUR 27 Dec 2019 -- The Kremlin warns that a foreign military intervention may be the worst option to achieve peace in Libya.
Four reasons why Turkey backs the UN-recognised Libyan government TRT World 27 Dec 2019 -- Ankara responds to Tripoli's request for military assistance as warlord Khalifa Haftar continues to pose a threat.
Turkey To Send Troops To Libya Amid Warnings From Russia RFE/RL 27 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says his country will send troops to Libya at Tripoli's request as soon as January, a move that could put them face-to-face with Kremlin-linked mercenaries allegedly fighting in the troubled North African country.
Turkish Defence Ministry Says Fully Prepared to Deploy Troops to Libya - Reports Sputnik 27 Dec 2019 -- The Turkish Armed Forces are ready to be deployed to Libya if necessary, media reported on Friday, citing National Defence Ministry Spokeswoman Nadide Sebnem Aktop.
'Second to None': Turkey May Seek More S-400s Amid Row With US, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Says Sputnik 27 Dec 2019 -- Russia finalised the delivery of all components of the S-400 air defence missile systems to Turkey earlier this year. According to Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, the S-400 will be fully operational in April 2020.
Russia, Turkey Conduct Joint Patrols in Syrian Province of Aleppo Sputnik 27 Dec 2019 -- Russia and Turkey have conducted joint patrols in Syria's Aleppo province along the Syria-Turkey border, Major General Yuri Borenkov, the head of the Russian Centre for Syrian reconciliation, said on Thursday.
White House: Trump, Egypt's Sisi in Phone Call Agree Urgent Steps Needed to Resolve Libya Conflict Sputnik 27 Dec 2019 -- US President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi agreed during a Thursday phone that they reject "foreign exploitation" in Libya and that the involved parties must take "urgent steps" to resolve the conflict, according to the White House.
Turkey will soon pass bill to send troops to Libya: President Erdogan Press TV 26 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says the Turkish parliament will soon pass a bill to send military forces to Libya as Tripoli has offered an "invitation" for the deployment.
Erdogan: Turkish Parliament to Vote on Sending Troops to Libya VOA 26 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Thursday lawmakers will vote in early January on a measure seeking authorization to send troops to Libya in support of the U.N.-backed government in Tripoli.
Libya's Government of National Accord Officially Requests Turkey's Military Aid Sputnik 26 Dec 2019 -- The office of Libya's Government of National Accord (GNA) officially requested Turkey's military aid.
Arab League Warns Foreign Interference Will Only Prolong Libyan Crisis Sputnik 26 Dec 2019 -- Foreign interference in Libya's affairs will only prolong the internal conflict and add to the suffering of Libyan people, the League of Arab States (LAS) said on Thursday, amid the Turkish president's plans to get a mandate to send troops to the conflict-hit country.
Eastern-Based Libyan Administration Calls Turkey's Offer of Troops to GNA 'Provocation' Sputnik 26 Dec 2019 -- The spokesman for the speaker of Libya's eastern-based parliament has called Turkey's offer to send troops to the aid of the rival Government of National Accord a ploy to sow discord among eastern forces.
Russia Opposes Meddling in Libyan Affairs as Turkey Vows to Send Troops to Conflict-Torn Country Sputnik 26 Dec 2019 -- The Turkish leader approved earlier in the day the memorandum on military cooperation with the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA), recently ratified by the Turkish parliament. Erdogan has said that Turkey may send its troops to Libya if the GNA makes such a request.
Haftar's Army Accuses Turkey of Smuggling Daesh, Nusra Terrorists to Libya Via Tunisia Sputnik 26 Dec 2019 -- Turkey smuggles Syria-based militants from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (formerly known as Al-Nusra Front), and Daesh* to Libya via Tunisia, the Libyan National Army (LNA) spokesman told Egypt's El-Watan newspaper on Wednesday.
Erdogan Claims Turkey Still Ready to Send Troops to Libya Amid Surprise Visit to Tunisia Sputnik 25 Dec 2019 -- On 21 December, the Turkish parliament ratified an agreement on military cooperation signed with Libya's Tripoli-based government. Erdogan has mentioned the possibility of sending Turkish troops to Libya if Tripoli makes a request.
Turkish Agreements with GNA Not Ratified by Parliament and Therefore Have No Validity - Libyan Envoy Sputnik 25 Dec 2019 -- The Turkish parliament has ratified a memorandum on military cooperation that was signed with Libya last month. The agreement has been ratified by the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA). Under the agreement, Libya could receive military aid from Ankara.
Turkish parliament drafting bill to authorize troop deployment to Libya Press TV 24 Dec 2019 -- The Turkish parliament is considering authorizing troop deployment to war-torn Libya, where anti-government militias have seized a Turkish ship, Ankara has announced.
Turkish Parliament May Consider Use of Armed Forces in Libya - Erdogan's Representative Sputnik 24 Dec 2019 -- Turkish Parliament can consider and possibly agree to use the country's armed forces in Libya, following an agreement on military cooperation, Ibrahim Kalin, the press secretary of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said.
Turkey detains mayor from pro-Kurdish opposition party over PKK affiliation Press TV 23 Dec 2019 -- Turkey has arrested a mayor from the pro-Kurdish People's Democratic Party (HDP) on charges of links to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) militant group and "disseminating terror propaganda."
Turkey to increase military support to Libya if necessary: President Erdogan Press TV 22 Dec 2019 -- President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Turkey will increase its military support to Libya's internationally-recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) if necessary and will evaluate military options there.
Turkey has alternatives to meet own defense needs, Parliament speaker says Press TV 22 Dec 2019 -- Turkish Parliament Speaker Mustafa Sentop says Ankara has alternative partners to meet its own defense needs, arguing that Washington has long exploited the threat of sanctions to put psychological pressure on world states.
Turkey's Erdogan Warns Europe Of New Syrian Migrants, Awaits Russian Talks RFE/RL 22 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned of the effects on Europe of a new influx of conflict-driven migration as people flee Russian and Syrian bombardments in northwestern Syria.
Haftar's forces capture Turkish ship after defense pact signed by Libya rivals Press TV 22 Dec 2019 -- Eastern forces loyal to Libya's self-styled commander Khalifa Haftar have seized a Turkish ship shortly after Turkey's parliament approved a defense pact in support of his rival in the North African country's civil war.
Libyan National Army Says Ship With Turkish Crew on Board Detained Off Libyan Coast Sputnik 22 Dec 2019 -- The Libyan National Army (LNA) forces seized a ship with a Turkish crew off the Libyan coast, the LNA's press service said on Sunday.
Trump signs controversial defense bill calling for sanctions against Russia, Turkey People's Daily 21 Dec 2019 -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday signed into law a 738-billion-U.S.-dollar defense bill which includes controversial provisions calling for sanctions against Russia and Turkey.
Turkey threatens US with counter-sanctions Press TV 20 Dec 2019 -- Turkey has vowed to retaliate in kind if the United States brings it under sanctions over its purchasing Russia's S-400 air defense systems and signing a natural gas deal with Moscow.
Ankara Slams Washington for Anti-Turkish Language in New Budget Bill – Foreign Ministry Sputnik 20 Dec 2019 -- Anti-Turkish language included in next year's US defence budget will only harm bilateral relations between Ankara and Washington after the US published plans to stop deliveries of F-35 fighter jets in response to Ankara's purchase of Russian-made S-400 missile systems, a spokesman for the Turkish Foreign Ministry said on Friday.
Moscow Worried Over Turkey's Military Cooperation With Libya's GNA - Source Sputnik 20 Dec 2019 -- Moscow is largely concerned over Turkey's possible deployment of troops to Libya and over Ankara's military cooperation agreement with Libya's internationally-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA), a source in the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Friday.
Turkish Troops, Snipers Fighting in Libya's GNA Ranks in Tripoli - LNA Military Source Sputnik 20 Dec 2019 -- Turkish snipers and storm groups are fighting in the ranks of Libya's Government of National Accord (GNA) in the capital of Tripoli, a military source in the rival Libyan National Army (LNA) said.
Tripoli-Based Unity Government Calls for Turkish Intervention in Libya, as Haftar's Forces Bomb Opposition VOA 20 Dec 2019 -- The Libyan national unity government based in Tripoli is asking Turkey, the U.S. and several European countries to defend the government, as forces loyal to eastern military commander General Khalifa Haftar called on militias fighting in Tripoli and Misratat to lay down their arms.
Turkish army to use indigenous machine gun-mounted drones Press TV 19 Dec 2019 -- The Turkish military is set to use its first indigenous armed drones capable of firing automatic machine guns during what it says are counter-terrorism operations.
Turkey's Erdogan Warns of New Syrian Refugee Exodus as Tensions With Moscow Loom VOA 19 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is warning of another refugee exodus from Syria as government forces there conduct airstrikes against rebel targets in Idlib province. With Russian forces backing the assault, Ankara and Moscow face a looming threat to their recent warming ties.
Bomb attack leaves five dead in Turkish-controlled northern Syrian town Press TV 19 Dec 2019 -- At least five people, including three children, have lost their lives and several others sustained injuries when a car rigged with explosives went off in an area of Syria's northeastern province of al-Hasakah, controlled by Turkish military forces and their allied militants ever since they launched a ground offensive against militants from the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).
Turkey calls US ending of Cyprus arms embargo 'dangerous escalation' Press TV 18 Dec 2019 -- Turkey has warned that the United States' decision to end a decades-old arms embargo on Cyprus would be a "dangerous escalation."
Over 100 children born to Daesh terrorists to repatriated to Turkey from Iraq Press TV 18 Dec 2019 -- The Iraqi Foreign Ministry says a group of more than one hundred Turkish children, whose parents are being held in the Arab country for membership in the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group, are going to be repatriated from Baghdad later this month.
Bill Noting Armenian Genocide Isn't Policy, Says U.S. State Department RFE/RL 17 Dec 2019 -- The U.S. State Department said on December 17 that recent congressional action to recognize the Armenian genocide does not reflect the policy of U.S. President Donald Trump's administration.
Turkey plans to set up military base in Libya: Local media Press TV 17 Dec 2019 -- Turkey is planning to establish a military base in Libya aimed at providing greater support for the Tripoli-based unity Government of National Accord (GNA) in the wake of a military deal signed between the two sides last month.
US Defence Secretary Says Must Speak With Turkish Counterpart About Base Closure Threats Sputnik 17 Dec 2019 -- US Defence Secretary Mark Esper told reporters on Monday that he would need to speak with his Turkish defence counterparts in order to determine the gravity of recent remarks in Turkey regarding the possible closure of US and NATO bases.
Turkey detains opposition mayor over affiliation to 2016 botched putsch Press TV 17 Dec 2019 -- Turkey has arrested a mayor from the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) over his alleged membership of a movement led by US-based opposition cleric Fethullah Gulen, who the Ankara government accuses of having masterminded the failed July 2016 coup attempt against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
District Mayor in Turkey Remanded by Court for Alleged Links to Gulen Movement - Reports Sputnik 17 Dec 2019 -- A recently appointed district mayor in Turkey's Izmir province on Tuesday gave testimony to a prosecutor and was later remanded by the court over alleged connections to US-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen's movement, referred to by Ankara as the Fethullah Terrorist Organisation (FETO), Anadolu news agency reported.
Erdogan, Putin Hold More Discussions on Libya VOA 17 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke Tuesday with Russian President Vladimir Putin about Libya as Ankara prepares for the possible deployment of soldiers to the war-torn country.
Turkish military drone lands in Cyprus, tensions with Greece may rise Press TV 16 Dec 2019 -- A Turkish military drone employed for the exploration of natural gas in the eastern Mediterranean has landed at an airport on the divided island of Cyprus, a move that is likely to add to tensions between Turkey and Greece.
Turkey Deploys Armed Drones to Northern Cyprus as Tensions Escalate VOA 16 Dec 2019 -- Turkey has deployed armed drones to northern Cyprus as tensions escalate in the gas-rich eastern Mediterranean over energy resources and control of their distribution. Greek- and Turkish Cypriots remain at loggerheads over the issue with the dispute now drawing in other nations.
Turkish Defense Minister Says Ankara Not Leaving NATO, Is Key Alliance Member RFE/RL 16 Dec 2019 -- Turkey is a key NATO ally and has no intention of leaving the defense alliance, the country's Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said at the 2019 Doha Forum on global security in Qatar on December 15.
US Tries to Salvage Ties With Turkey as Ankara Threatens to Close Incirlik Air Base - Source Sputnik 16 Dec 2019 -- Washington previously imposed sanctions against the Turkish government back in October, over the purchase of Russian S-400 air defence systems and Ankara's operation in northern Syria against the US-backed Kurdish militants, but later cancelled them, when a ceasefire in the region was reached.
Turkey-backed terrorists steal property of Syrian locals: SANA Press TV 16 Dec 2019 -- Turkey-backed terrorist groups continue to steal and plunder the property of local residents on the outskirts of the Kurdish town of Ra's al-Ayn in the northeastern Syrian province of Hasakah, state media report.
Erdogan Says Russia, US Failed to Clear Safe Zone in Syria's North of Kurdish Forces Sputnik 16 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday that Russia and the United States failed to fulfill their obligations to Ankara on the withdrawal of the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) from the security zone in northern Syria, and Turkey will do it on its own.
Turkish ships chase Israeli vessel out of Cypriot waters Press TV 15 Dec 2019 -- Turkish navy ships have intercepted an Israeli research vessel in Cypriot waters, over which Ankara claims jurisdiction, forcing it to leave the area in a move that could negatively impact an ambitious Israeli project to pipe natural gas to Europe.
Israeli Vessel Chased Out of Cypriot Waters by Turkish Navy Ships - Reports Sputnik 15 Dec 2019 -- Earlier this month, Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Fatih Donmez unveiled plans to conduct further oil and gas exploration in the eastern Mediterranean Sea after signing a memorandum of understanding with Libya's UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA).
Ankara sends maritime deal with Libya to parliament for approval Press TV 15 Dec 2019 -- The Turkish government has sent to the parliament the text of a military agreement it reached with Libya's internationally-recognized government for approval, moving closer to military support for the Tripoli-based unity Government of National Accord (GNA).
Turkish Leader Threatens To Close Key U.S. Base If Sanctions Imposed RFE/RL 15 Dec 2019 -- Turkey's president threatened to close two strategic military bases used by the United States and NATO if Washington imposes sanctions in response for Turkey's purchase of a Russia antiaircraft system.
Erdogan Threatens to Close Incirlik Air Base, Used by US Forces, if Washington Imposes Sanctions Sputnik 15 Dec 2019 -- A series of hostile moves between the United States and Turkey began after Ankara's purchase of Russian S-400 air defence systems and the country's operation in northern Syria.
Turkey Asked US for New Offer of Patriot Missiles – Foreign Minister Sputnik 14 Dec 2019 -- Turkey has again asked the United States to sell its Patriot missile systems and is waiting for a response, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Saturday.
Northern Cyprus Will Allow Turkish Aircraft to Use Its Airport for Gas Drilling – Report Sputnik 14 Dec 2019 -- The Turkish Foreign Ministry has repeatedly underscored Ankara's determination to continue carrying out hydrocarbon exploration in Cyprus' exclusive economic zone despite the EU's threat to sanction Ankara over the move.
Turkey summons US ambassador over Senate resolution recognizing 'Armenia genocide' Press TV 13 Dec 2019 -- Turkey's Foreign Ministry has summoned the US ambassador to Ankara over a resolution adopted by the US Senate recognizing the early 20th century mass killings of Armenians as "genocide."
Russia-Turkey Agreement on S-400 Joint Production to Be Signed by April 2020 - Source Sputnik 13 Dec 2019 -- The supply of the second battalion of Russian S-400 air defence missile systems to Turkey supposes joint production and transfer of technologies, a contract on this is to be signed by April 2020, a source in the Turkish defence industry said Friday.
US Senate Adopts Resolution Recognising Armenian Genocide Sputnik 12 Dec 2019 -- The US Senate has joined the House of Representatives in passing a resolution to recognise the killings of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire as genocide.
U.S. Congress Recognizes Armenian Killings As Genocide RFE/RL 12 Dec 2019 -- The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed a resolution recognizing the mass killing of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire a century ago as genocide, a move Armenia's prime minister hailed as a "victory of justice and truth."
Russia condemns US pressure on Turkey over S-400 missile systems procurement Press TV 12 Dec 2019 -- Russia has strongly condemned US pressure on Turkey over its purchase of advanced Russian-made S-400 missile defense systems, describing Washington's threats of sanctions over procurement of the military hardware as "unacceptable."
Senate Panel Passes Bill To Impose Sanctions On Turkey And Russia RFE/RL 11 Dec 2019 -- A U.S. Senate committee has passed legislation with bipartisan support to hit Turkey with sanctions but refrained from voting on a controversial Russian sanctions bill.
US Senate committee approves Turkey sanctions bill Press TV 11 Dec 2019 -- The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee has approved legislation to impose sanctions on Turkey over its offensive against Syria as well as its purchase of the Russian S-400 missile system.
US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Approves Sanctions Against Turkey Over Its Purchase of S-400s Sputnik 11 Dec 2019 -- Washington has repeatedly threatened to sanction Turkey over its decision to buy the Russian air defence system, and moved to halt the delivery of F-35 fighter jets to Ankara over the purchase earlier this year.
US Senate Committee Passes Bill That Would Impose Sanctions on Turkey VOA 11 Dec 2019 -- The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved a measure Wednesday that would impose sanctions on Turkey following its military offensive in northern Syria and plans to buy a Russian missile system.
Turkey Threatens US With Retaliation if Sanctions Are Imposed VOA 11 Dec 2019 -- Ankara is threatening retaliation against Washington if hit by sanctions.
Giving up on S-400 missile systems out of question, says Turkish defense minister Press TV 11 Dec 2019 -- Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar says his country will not back out of the procurement of the advanced Russian-made S-400 missile defense systems, and is currently in contact with its NATO allies, particularly the United States, to work out a solution to the matter.
After Banning Transfer, Pentagon Makes Plans for Buying F-35s Once Destined for Turkey Sputnik 11 Dec 2019 -- US defense leaders and lawmakers are making plans for what to do with the six F-35As already built for Turkey, now that it seems certain Ankara will never be allowed to buy them. Millions of dollars are being set aside to store the advanced jets, which the Air Force will get first pick at buying.
Turkey May Close Incirlik Air Base for US Over Sanctions Against S-400 Purchase - Foreign Minister Sputnik 11 Dec 2019 -- Earlier, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Ankara will not abandon the Russian S-400 air defence systems in order to buy American Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems.
Iran, Russia, Turkey call for restoration of peace to Syria's Idlib Press TV 11 Dec 2019 -- The three mediators of the Astana peace process on Syria – Russia, Turkey and Iran – have expressed their concerns about the presence of Takfiri terrorist groups in Idlib, underlining the need for the restoration of peace to the northwestern Syrian province, which is the last main militant bastion in the Arab state.
Putin, Erdogan Call for Greater Anti-Terrorism Effort in Syria Sputnik 12 Dec 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke in favour of stepping up efforts to combat terrorism in Syria, including in Idlib province, during phone talks on Wednesday, Kremlin's press service reported.
US General Sees Hope for Ties with Turkey VOA 10 Dec 2019 -- Growing tensions between Turkey and the United States do not have to result in the end of the long-standing alliance despite some major rifts between Ankara and Washington.
Russia, Turkey, Iran Hold 14th Round Of Talks On Syria War In Kazakhstan RFE/RL 10 Dec 2019 -- The delegations of Turkey, Iran, and Russia have arrived in Kazakhstan's capital, Nur-Sultan, for two days of trilateral talks, Kazakh Foreign Ministry spokesman Aibek Smadiyarov has told reporters.
First Day of Astana-14 Talks on Syria Kicks Off With Russia-Iran Meeting Sputnik 10 Dec 2019 -- The first day of the 14th round of Astana-format talks on Syria in the Kazakh capital has started with a bilateral meeting between the Russian and Iranian delegations.
Bogged down near Tripoli, Haftar's militia now seek to take on Turkey, too Press TV 10 Dec 2019 -- A commander with Libyan militia groups headed by renegade general Khalifa Haftar says he has "orders" to destroy any Turkish vessel near war-torn Libya, hours after Turkey and the internationally-recognized government of Libya began implementing agreements on maritime boundaries and military cooperation.
Turkey Can Send Troops to Libya If Tripoli Asks for Assistance - Erdogan Sputnik 10 Dec 2019 -- In late November, Turkey and the Tripoli-based Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) signed a memorandum on maritime boundaries in the Mediterranean Sea, prompting an outcry from several countries in the region. Meanwhile, the chairman of the Tobruk-based Libyan parliament, Aguila Saleh Issa, called the document illegal.
Erdogan: Turkey Ready to Send Troops to Libya If Asked VOA 10 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he is ready to deploy soldiers to Libya following the announcement of a security agreement with the Libyan government. Ankara has been actively seeking to project its influence across the Mediterranean as a scramble intensifies for the region's energy resources.
Greece irate as Turkey, Libya enforce maritime, military accords Press TV 10 Dec 2019 -- Turkey and Libya have begun implementing agreements on maritime boundaries and military cooperation, drawing an angry reaction from Greece which views the accords as a violation of its sovereign rights.
Libyan Presidential Council Member Says Ankara-Tripoli Deal Spurred by Maritime Border Violations Sputnik 10 Dec 2019 -- The memorandum between Turkey and the Tripoli-based Libyan Government of National Accord is a response to a similar agreement between Greece and Egypt, and violations of Libyan maritime borders by other countries, Amna Umm Tahir, a member of the UN-recognized Presidential Council, said on Tuesday.
Erdogan Says Turkey Won't Dispose of Russian S-400s for US' Patriot Sputnik 10 Dec 2019 -- Ankara will not abandon the Russian S-400 air defence systems in order to buy American Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.
Turkey Not in Hurry to Buy Fighters From Russia, Hopes to Get Them From US - Turkish Defence Minister Sputnik 09 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated in November after a meeting with his US counterpart Donald Trump in Washington that Ankara might purchase US Patriot systems, but it considers the US requests to get rid of Russia's air defence systems S-400 an infringement of its sovereignty.
Turkish-US Fighter Jet Dispute Rekindles Century-Old Animosities VOA 09 Dec 2019 -- Turkey Defense Minister Hulusi Akar warned Washington on Monday that Turkey will seek alternatives if Washington doesn't end its embargo on the sale of the F-35 jet.
Turkey's new combat drone conducts test flight, manufacturer says Press TV 07 Dec 2019 -- Turkey's latest domestically-made unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which is equipped with smart technology, has successfully conducted its maiden flight in the northwest of the country, the manufacturer says.
Turkish Military Will Stay in Syria Until Syrians Say 'Thank You, You May Leave Now' - Erdogan Sputnik 07 Dec 2019 -- Turkey launched a major offensive in the northern part of Syria in October in order to move the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) further away from its border.
No progress in shifting Turkey from Russian S-400 missile system: U.S. defense chief People's Daily 06 Dec 2019 -- U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper said Thursday there had been "no movement" with regard to getting Turkey to abandon the Russian S-400 missile system.
Turkey Intends to Solve Problems With US Over S-400 Through Dialogue – Foreign Ministry Sputnik 06 Dec 2019 -- Turkey intends to overcome disagreements with the United States regarding the purchase of Russian-made S-400 air defence systems through diplomatic means, Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Hami Aksoy said at a press conference on Friday, stressing that Ankara has a "sovereign right" to protect itself.
Erdogan Says NATO Allies Must Back Turkey's Fight Against Terrorism RFE/RL 05 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has confirmed that Ankara dropped its objection to a NATO plan to bolster the defense of Poland and the Baltic states, adding that it now expected the allies' support in its fight against terrorism.
Turkey, US Will Continue Talks to Settle Disputes Over Ankara's S-400 Purchase - Erdogan Sputnik 05 Dec 2019 -- Ankara and Washington will continue talks to settle disputes over Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 missile systems, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday, commenting on the results of the NATO leaders' summit in London from December 3-4.
US Increases Pressure on Key Turkish State Bank VOA 05 Dec 2019 -- The fate of one of Turkey's largest state banks is increasingly entwined with the future of Turkish-U.S. relations. Halkbank, already on trial in federal court in New York, is now being targeted by Congress.
Turkey-Greece Tensions Escalate Over Ankara's Mediterranean Ambitions VOA 04 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met Wednesday in an effort to defuse rising tensions over disputed territorial waters in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. The meeting on the sideline of the London NATO summit comes amid Turkish-Greek tensions over territorial disputes about the Mediterranean.
NATO Must Respond to Ankara's S-400 Purchase, Find Way to Deploy US Systems in Turkey - German MP Sputnik 05 Dec 2019 -- NATO should respond to Ankara's purchasing of Russian-made S-400 air defence systems and manage to position US anti-missile systems in Turkey, German Member of Parliament Nils Schmid said.
New US Legislation Will Sanction Turkey for S-400 Purchase, Russian Nationals for Syrian Ties Sputnik 04 Dec 2019 -- US Senate Foreign Relations Committee scheduled for next week deliberations on legislation that would penalize Turkey's government for purchasing Russian-made S-400 air defence systems and sanctions yet to be determined against Russian individuals who are engaged in defence cooperation with Syria, the panel's website said.
'Turkey to veto NATO plan if allies fail to recognize terror threats' Press TV 03 Dec 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to reject NATO's so-called defense plan for the Baltic states and Poland if the Western military alliance fails to recognize groups that Ankara deems terrorists.
'Technically This is Not Possible': Macron Claims NATO Members Can't Buy S-400 Systems From Russia Sputnik 03 Dec 2019 -- This year, Russia completed the delivery of all components of the S-400 air defence missile systems to Turkey which is a NATO member. According to Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, the S-400 will be fully operational in April 2020.
Turkey Will Not Support NATO in Poland If Bloc Ignores Ankara's Interests - Erdogan Sputnik 03 Dec 2019 -- Earlier, Ankara had vetoed NATO's defence plan for Poland and the Baltic states, supposedly over the US refusing to support the same for Turkey, after Ankara suggested declaring Syria's YPG Kurdish militia a terrorist organisation.
Greek Prime Minister Says Turkish Gas Drilling Undermining EU Energy Efforts - Reports Sputnik 02 Dec 2019 -- During a meeting of EU leaders at a crucial United Nations climate change summit in Madrid on 2 December, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis condemned Turkish hydrocarbon drilling off the coast of Cyprus, arguing that it undermined EU efforts to embrace renewable energy sources, the Kathimerini newspaper reported.
'Time For Patience Has Long Expired': US Senators Urge Pompeo to Sanction Turkey Sputnik 03 Dec 2019 -- Last week, Turkey conducted radar testing for its newly-acquired Russian-made S-400 air defence systems, even as the United States urges Ankara to abandon the missile systems by "destroying, returning or somehow getting rid of them."
Erdogan to Highlight Syrian Refugee Issue at NATO Summit VOA 02 Dec 2019 -- Syria is set to top the agenda of talks Tuesday between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and French, British and German leaders on the sidelines of the London NATO summit.
Turkey to get deal done on Russia's S-400, US threats notwithstanding Press TV 02 Dec 2019 -- Turkey says it will complete the purchase of the second set of the Russian S-400 missile system despite repeated warnings from Washington that a deal could lead to sanctions.
Turkey Still Undecided on Buying Russia's Su-35 Jets - Defence Industries Directorate Sputnik 02 Dec 2019 -- Turkey is carefully studying the characteristics of the Russian Su-35 fighter jets, but it is too early to speak about the procurement of these aircraft, the head of the country's Defence Industries Directorate, Ismail Demir, said.
Purchase of Russia's S-400 by Turkey Will Boost NATO - Erdogan's Office Sputnik 02 Dec 2019 -- Russia started deliveries of the air defence systems to Turkey in July, and they are expected to become fully operational by April 2020, according to Ankara.
Eight children among 11 killed in Turkish shelling on Syria's Aleppo: Observatory Press TV 02 Dec 2019 -- Turkish military forces have claimed the lives of at least 11 civilians, including eight children, in an artillery attack that struck near a school in the northwestern Syrian province of Aleppo.
Greek Prime Minister Wants NATO to Condemn Turkey's Maritime Violations Sputnik 01 Dec 2019 -- Greek officials who came to a Turkish border town on Saturday to witness the launch of a major stretch of an EU-backed gas pipeline walked away in a huff after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan vowed to continue drilling off Cyprus.

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December 2019 - Turkey Special Weapons News