US Warns Turkey of Consequences Over Military Equipment Exports to Russia

Washington has warned Turkey that there will be "consequences" for the country if it does not stop exporting American military equipment that is vital to Moscow's "war machine." This was reported by the Financial Times.

Matthew Axelrod, Assistant Secretary of Commerce, who leads US efforts to keep sensitive technologies away from Washington's adversaries, recently met with Turkish officials and executives in Ankara and Istanbul as part of efforts to curb illegal trade. According to a senior official in the Commerce Department, his message was that Turkey needs to do more to halt the trade of American-origin chips and other parts that are considered crucial for Russia in the Ukraine conflict.

During his recent visit to Ankara and Istanbul, Axelrod expressed dissatisfaction with Turkish authorities. He claimed they are involved in transferring sensitive American technology to the Russian Federation, circumventing US sanctions.

“We need Turkey to help stop the illegal flow of US technology to Russia. We need to see rapid progress from Turkish authorities and industry. Otherwise, we will have no choice but to impose restrictions on those who circumvent our export controls,” said Axelrod.

It is noted that according to American officials, the US Department of Commerce has already added 18 companies to its sanctions list for transferring American goods to the Russian Federation, and this list could expand in the future if no "progress" is made by Turkey.