President Erdoğan pledges to keep NATO under watch after Ankara summit

Turkey hosted the 36th NATO Heads of State and Government summit in Ankara, bringing together leaders of 32 member states. In the post‑summit press conference, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was asked whether Turkey would comply with the U.S. law prohibiting the S‑400 missile system. He answered, “Bizi izlemeye devam edin” (“Keep watching us”), prompting applause in the room.

The summit also saw a strengthening of U.S.–Turkey ties, with former President Donald Trump praising Erdoğan and emphasizing continued American support. NATO allies approved a $50 billion budget for military equipment and munitions, underscoring increased burden‑sharing among members.

Erdoğan highlighted Turkey’s expanded defence capabilities and its role as a key security partner in the region, while also addressing broader issues such as the F‑35 program and regional tensions.