Kremlin: Turkey’s Potential S-400 Return Won’t Affect Russia Ties
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday that Russia is preparing for contact with the United States to receive information regarding the results of their work with Ukrainians and Europeans concerning the resolution process in Ukraine.
Peskov further clarified that the potential return of S-400 systems from Turkey to Russia was not on the agenda for the meeting between President Putin and President Erdoğan. He emphasized that the return of S-400 systems by Turkey would not affect Russia’s relationship with Turkey.
Dmitry Peskov added that Venezuela is Russia’s ally and partner, and that both sides maintain regular contacts, including at the highest level. He noted heightened tensions surrounding Venezuela in the region and urged all countries in the region to exercise restraint in order to prevent unpredictable developments around Venezuela.
Bloomberg had previously reported that Turkey intends to return the S-400 air defense systems, ending a controversial defense deal that strained relations with the United States and other members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and could pave the way for the purchase of F-35 fighter jets made in the U.S.
