US President Donald Trump urged Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to halt Turkey’s purchases of Russian oil during their meeting at the White House on September 25, 2025. The call comes amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and broader US efforts to cut off Moscow’s energy funding. Trump said the best thing Erdogan could do to help end the conflict was to stop buying oil and gas from Russia.

This meeting marked Erdogan’s first visit to the White House since 2019 and came amid Turkey’s push to revive long-stalled deals for US military hardware, specifically the F-35 stealth fighter jets. Trump hinted that the US could soon lift sanctions against Turkey, which have blocked Ankara from acquiring F-35s since 2019. These restrictions followed Turkey’s controversial purchase of Russian S-400 air defense missile systems, which led to its removal from the F-35 program due to security concerns. Trump expressed optimism about resolving this issue, saying, “You’ll know by the end of the day,” regarding possible agreements on both sanctions relief and jet sales.

During the Oval Office meeting, Trump spoke candidly: “I’d like to have him stop buying any oil from Russia while Russia continues this rampage against Ukraine.” He highlighted Turkey’s strategic position, noting Erdogan’s high regard by both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump suggested Erdogan holds potential influence to help end the conflict if he chooses to exert it.

Turkey is among the top consumers of Russian oil and gas along with India and China. Despite being a NATO ally, Ankara has maintained close economic ties to Moscow, including energy imports, much to Washington’s concern. Trump criticized Moscow’s military actions, noting devastating casualties and calling Putin’s war an unnecessary tragedy.

Separately, Turkey aims to enhance its air power with the US, not only seeking F-35 jets but also discussing upgrades to its existing F-16 fleet and potential Boeing aircraft deals. Erdogan has also indicated a willingness to cooperate with the US on regional security issues. However, differences remain on issues like Ankara’s stance towards Israel amid tensions over Gaza.

Experts note this rapprochement between Washington and Ankara under Trump contrasts with a cooler relationship during the Biden administration, largely due to Erdogan’s ties with Russia and regional policies. The proposed lifting of sanctions and re-entry into the F-35 program could significantly shift NATO dynamics and regional military balances.

In summary, Trump’s call for Turkey to cease Russian oil imports is part of a broader US strategy to economically isolate Russia over the Ukraine war while restoring a key alliance with Turkey through possible sanctions relief and arms deals. The outcome of this White House meeting could herald a notable shift in US-Turkey relations and impact the strategic landscape in NATO and the Eastern Mediterranean. Observers await further details on any formal agreements or timetables to end sanctions and resume F-35 sales, as well as Ankara’s eventual response on Russian energy purchases, which remain a crucial leverage point.

Readers should stay informed on developments in US-Turkey energy cooperation, defense diplomacy, and implications for the Ukraine conflict as these talks progress. The evolving relationship will have important consequences for NATO cohesion, regional security, and the broader geopolitical contest involving Russia’s war in Ukraine.

This reporting aims to keep readers updated on key diplomatic moves shaping global alliances and energy policies amid intense international tensions. Further updates will follow as negotiations continue and official agreements are announced.