Saturday, March 29, 2025
Washington, Sept 25, 2025 (AFP) – U.S. President Donald Trump pressed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday to stop importing Russian oil, arguing it would increase pressure on Moscow to end the war in Ukraine.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office alongside Erdogan, Trump said:
“I want Erdogan to stop buying oil from Russia as long as Russia continues its war in Ukraine.”
This meeting marked Erdogan’s first visit to the United States since 2019, underscoring a renewed phase in U.S.-Turkey relations. Trump described the Turkish leader as someone respected by both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, suggesting Ankara could play a more influential role in resolving the conflict.
“The best thing for him would be not to buy oil and gas from Russia,” Trump said, adding: “I think if he wants to, he could have a big impact.”
Washington has repeatedly urged its NATO allies to reduce energy dependence on Moscow since the invasion of Ukraine began. Turkey, however, has maintained significant trade with Russia, including in energy, while also providing diplomatic channels between Kyiv and Moscow.
The latest appeal reflects Trump’s broader push to isolate Russia economically and to enlist Turkey’s leverage in the ongoing war.
