President Donald Trump arrived in Ankara, Turkey, on July 7, 2026, for a two-day NATO Summit, receiving a ceremonial welcome including military salutes and a flyover. He began his visit with a bilateral meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, expressing that he had "no concerns" about selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey and announcing plans to lift U.S. sanctions that currently bar the sale.

Trump stated, "I would say the relationship with Turkey is better probably than it’s ever been," despite ongoing concerns about Turkey's possession of the S-400 missile defense system.

However, Fox News host Mark Levin sharply criticized the administration's approach, calling it a "big mistake" to provide Turkey with what he described as "military gifts." Levin wrote on the social platform X that it was "Christmas in Turkey," noting, "We’re piling on so many generous and expensive gifts even Erdogan is surprised. Big mistake."

Levin further condemned the administration for proceeding with F-35 and jet engine sales and lifting sanctions despite Turkish President Erdoğan's recent threat to destroy Israel. He stated, "The American people do not support providing these top-line military gifts to Erdogan and his regime," warning that these issues "will have to be dealt with by future American administrations for decades to come."

Trump's visit also included criticism of NATO allies, expressing disappointment over their contributions and support, particularly regarding the conflict in Iran. He remarked that if the summit were not held in Turkey, where he considers Erdoğan a "very strong leader," he might not have attended.

Meanwhile, back in the United States, Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner faces mounting pressure to withdraw from the race following sexual assault allegations, with his support rapidly diminishing. Michigan Democratic Senate hopefuls Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed prepared for a debate scheduled for the same day.

Sources