US Ambassador Barrack Signals Progress on S-400 Dispute, Highlights Stronger Türkiye Ties

US Ambassador to Ankara Tom Barrack said a resolution to the long-standing S-400 dispute between Türkiye and the United States could be reached soon, as he pointed to improving bilateral relations and Türkiye’s growing regional influence. Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Barrack also emphasized Ankara’s strategic role in the Middle East and global diplomacy.

“S-400 Issue Could Be Resolved Soon”

Tom Barrack, US Ambassador to Türkiye and Special Envoy for Syria, said he expects a breakthrough on the S-400 air defense dispute in the near future.

Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Barrack suggested that progress in US-Türkiye relations could pave the way for renewed cooperation, including the possibility of Türkiye’s return to the F-35 fighter jet program.

US-Türkiye Relations Improving

Barrack noted that relations between Türkiye and the United States have seen more progress in the past 16 months than in the previous 15 years.

He highlighted growing cooperation across multiple areas, including diplomacy, intelligence, defense, and trade, pointing in particular to the relationship between President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and US President Donald Trump.

He also referenced ongoing discussions around defense cooperation, including the F-16 process, Boeing agreements, and unresolved issues such as Halkbank.

Türkiye’s Strategic Role in the Region

Barrack described Türkiye as one of the most powerful and functional economies in the region, emphasizing its geopolitical weight.

He noted that Türkiye is not only NATO’s second-largest military power but also a key regional actor with significant influence due to its population, economic capacity, and military strength.

According to Barrack, Türkiye has played a decisive role in shaping developments in Syria and continues to act as a critical diplomatic intermediary in regional conflicts.

Shifting US Approach in Syria

Barrack pointed to a shift in Washington’s Syria policy, highlighting the withdrawal of US troops as a significant change from past strategies.

He said the US has reduced its military footprint and is now focusing on alternative approaches, marking a departure from decades of interventionist policy.

He also described Syria as moving toward greater stability, noting that the country has avoided deeper involvement in regional conflicts.

Israel, Syria and Regional Dynamics

Barrack commented on ongoing tensions between Israel and Syria, arguing that while Syria has avoided direct confrontation, Israel continues cross-border operations due to a lack of trust.

He cited statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggesting that traditional boundaries and red lines have lost relevance following recent conflicts.

Barrack also indicated that Syria has signaled openness to normalization and non-aggression agreements with Israel.

“Solution Lies in Prosperity, Not Military Action”

Barrack stressed that military approaches alone cannot deliver lasting solutions in the Middle East.

He argued that cycles of violence only reinforce long-term instability, and that sustainable peace depends on economic development and improved living conditions.

“From individuals to families and states, prosperity is the foundation of stability,” he said.

Türkiye’s Role in Mediation

Barrack highlighted Türkiye’s importance in mediation efforts, particularly in Gaza and broader regional conflicts.

He suggested that involving Türkiye more directly in diplomatic processes could help reduce tensions, given its ability to engage with multiple actors.

He also noted that Türkiye and Qatar’s stance on groups such as Hamas has shaped their role in regional diplomacy.

Toward a New Regional Order

Barrack suggested that alliances in the region could shift significantly, with potential normalization between countries that have historically been at odds.

He pointed to the possibility of future cooperation between Israel, Türkiye, and Gulf countries, arguing that such alignments could contribute to long-term stability.

Outlook: Momentum Builds in Bilateral Ties

Barrack’s remarks indicate a potential turning point in US-Türkiye relations, with progress on key disputes such as the S-400 issue and renewed defense cooperation on the table.

At the same time, Türkiye’s expanding regional role continues to position it as a central player in Middle Eastern geopolitics.