Ex-head of the Pentagon announced the possibility of suspending Turkey's NATO membership
A considerable number of both American and, naturally, Turkish officials spoke out about the introduction of American sanctions against Turkey for the purchase of Russian air defense systems. The former head of the Pentagon, Robert Gates, also joined the speakers.
According to him, America has repeatedly warned Turkey about the consequences, but Turkey ignored these warnings. Robert Gates:
According to the former US Secretary of Defense, the sanctions should only increase. In his opinion, Turkey should be "punished for actions in Libya, the Eastern Mediterranean and Syria."
Gates:
The ex-minister said that in addition to Turkey, Hungary and Poland are becoming authoritarian.
Gates:
In response, the Turkish president reiterated that US actions undermine NATO's unity, adding that "no sanctions can prevent Turkey from improving its own security system."
For reference: R. Gates - US Secretary of Defense in 2006-2011. In 1991-1993 he served as director of the US Central Intelligence Agency.
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