The American Hellenic Institute (AHI) has expressed its opposition to the proposed sale of GE F110 engines to Turkey for its KAAN fighter jet, as well as to any process that could lead Ankara to acquire F-35 fighter jets, in a letter addressed to US President Donald Trump.
In the letter, dated 26 June 2026, AHI President and CEO Nick Larigakis calls on the US administration to halt the proposed defence sale, respect Congress’ constitutional oversight role and ensure that Turkey does not acquire F-35s while it fails to meet the conditions set by US national security legislation.
The letter was also sent to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Daniel Lawton and the US Congress.
AHI links the issue of engines for the KAAN fighter jet to the broader matter of Turkey’s S-400 system and its removal from the F-35 programme. The letter recalls that the first Trump administration imposed sanctions on Turkey under the CAATSA law after Ankara decided to purchase the Russian S-400 air defence system.
“Your administration reached the correct conclusion in 2020, and we respectfully urge you to stand by that position,” the letter states.
AHI notes that nothing has changed since then, as Turkey continues to possess the Russian system and the national security concerns that led to the sanctions remain unresolved.
The Institute also warns that promoting policies that would undermine the sanctions would weaken the legal framework under which they were imposed.
Congress’ role
The letter places particular emphasis on the role of Congress. According to AHI, although the administration has formally notified Congress of the proposed sale, reports suggest the process is moving forward despite objections from senior congressional figures and without following the established consultation procedure that traditionally governs major arms sales.
In this context, AHI stresses that Congress’ constitutional oversight powers are an essential safeguard in US foreign and national security policy and must be fully respected.
Criticism of Turkey’s conduct
The letter also contains broader criticism of Turkey’s stance.
AHI argues that Turkey’s behaviour over several years shows it is not a reliable NATO ally, citing what it describes as the illegal occupation of the Republic of Cyprus, violations of Greek sovereignty in the Aegean, Ankara’s ties with Russia and its stance toward destabilising actors in the Middle East, including Hamas.
The Institute also refers to the continued persecution of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, framing the issue within the wider context of violations of international norms and US law.
“Rewarding such behaviour with expanded defence cooperation sends the wrong message to both our allies and our adversaries,” the letter states.
AHI contrasts Turkey’s conduct with the United States’ strategic relationships with Greece, the Republic of Cyprus and other democratic allies in the Eastern Mediterranean, arguing that these partnerships have benefited Washington and should continue to be strengthened at a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty.
In conclusion, the American Hellenic Institute calls on the Trump administration to reverse its current policy direction toward Turkey, uphold the rule of law, respect the role of Congress and prevent any acquisition of F-35s by Ankara until all conditions imposed under US law are fully met.
Source: ANA-MPA
Also read: Fire breaks out in Trachoni, Limassol
