Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US President Joe Biden held discussions this weekend, signaling a continued dialogue ahead of the NATO alliance summit in Vilnius, scheduled for the 11th and 12th. The talks underscored Sweden’s bid for NATO membership and the commitment to a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the gathering, reflecting the ongoing importance of alliance cohesion and regional security in the wake of evolving European security dynamics.
In a phone briefing released by the Turkish Presidency, Erdogan noted that Sweden has taken steps in the right direction but expressed concern about continued demonstrations by sympathizers of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). These demonstrations, he argued, complicate Sweden’s path to full NATO approval, given that the PKK is designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union. Erdogan urged practical measures that address security concerns while maintaining the broader goal of alliance unity.
The Turkish side noted that while Sweden has amended its anti-terror laws, the ongoing public displays that exalt or normalize terrorist groups remain problematic. Such demonstrations can undermine the credibility of Sweden’s security commitments within NATO, according to the statement. The comment reflects a broader Turkish position that security cooperates most effectively when allied partners demonstrate tangible progress against extremist networks that threaten regional stability.
Historically, Sweden and Finland submitted their candidacies to join NATO following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, marking a shift from long-standing policies of military nonalignment. The two Nordic nations have since sought to align with NATO’s strategic framework and deterrence posture, aligning with the alliance’s goals of collective defense and interoperability in a rapidly changing security landscape.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg urged Erdogan and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Monday to forge closer alignment ahead of the summit, highlighting the importance of resolute, unified messages among alliance members. The push for closer coordination reflects a shared desire to present a united front on critical security questions when leaders converge in Vilnius for the gathering.
A Turkish government statement indicated that Erdogan and Biden planned to meet in person in Vilnius to discuss regional priorities and the broader scope of Turkey–United States cooperation. The discussions are expected to cover security, economic ties, and regional diplomacy, with an emphasis on sustaining constructive dialogue across multiple channels to support regional stability and mutual interests.
During the exchanges, Erdogan clarified that Turkey’s interest in acquiring F-16 fighter jets should not be interpreted solely as a consequence of Sweden’s NATO candidacy. The Turkish side reiterated its position on the matter, emphasizing that the defense procurement decision stands as a separate issue tied to national security and regional interoperability with U.S. military capabilities.
Looking ahead, Erdogan expressed a clear intent to reinvigorate Turkey’s path toward EU membership and asked for a resolute, positive signal from member states at the Vilnius summit. The goal is to maintain a credible perspective on Turkey’s long-term integration with Western institutions while balancing national interests and regional responsibilities. The remarks stress the importance of tangible steps from the EU that reinforce political will and a stable, predictable course for Turkey within the broader European security framework. (Source: Presidency statements and subsequent briefings)