U.S. to Lift Turkey Sanctions, Reopening Path to F-35 Sales

President Trump announced that the United States will lift sanctions on Turkey imposed after Ankara purchased a Russian missile defense system. The sanctions, placed in 2020, had blocked arms sales and other cooperation. Turkey was removed from the F-35 fighter jet program in 2019 over the same purchase.

Trump stated the sanctions removal could allow future sales of the jets to resume. The announcement came as part of a series of statements by the president on Monday. He separately said a new helipad will be built on the South Lawn to accommodate the VH-92A Patriot helicopter now entering service.

The VH-92A produces roughly two and a half times the power of the VH-3D Sea King it replaces. During a recent landing the newer aircraft tore up half the grass in front of the Oval Office. The helipad will be made of granite and include the White House seal.

It is expected to cost about $6 million, with the manufacturer covering the expense. Trump has ordered several other changes to the White House grounds during his second term, including paving the Rose Garden and installing flagpoles on the North and South lawns.