U.S. President Donald Trump and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan held a phone call Monday, which both leaders described as “very productive” and wide-ranging. Discussions spanned the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Gaza conflict, and the situation in Syria. Trump said Erdogan invited him to Turkey, while Erdogan confirmed the mutual visit plan via social media.
The call marks a potential warming in U.S.-Turkey relations, which had deteriorated over the past decade due to policy clashes on Syria, Turkey’s closer alignment with Russia, and U.S. sanctions over Ankara’s purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems. Under the Biden administration, ties had shifted from a values-based alliance to a transactional relationship. Erdogan now appears optimistic about re-engaging with Washington under Trump’s leadership.
Trump, who praised Erdogan as a “friend” and highlighted their “excellent” past relationship, emphasized cooperation to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. “I look forward to working with President Erdogan on ending the ridiculous but deadly war between Russia and Ukraine — NOW!” he said online. However, no concrete details were shared on Turkey’s role in peace efforts.
Since returning to office in January, Trump has adopted a controversial Ukraine policy, urging Kyiv toward a ceasefire and reducing pressure on Russia. Though he previously blamed Ukraine, Trump recently questioned Russian President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to negotiate.
Erdogan, in the Turkish readout, voiced support for uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza and pledged Ankara’s assistance in achieving a ceasefire and lasting peace. He also advocated for Syria’s territorial integrity and requested Trump consider easing U.S. sanctions on Damascus.
The call signals renewed diplomatic coordination between Ankara and Washington on several critical global flashpoints.