Türkiye-Greece comment from Rubio

Speaking to the Greek newspaper "Kathimerini" during his visit to Athens, the capital of Greece, US Secretary of State Rubio made evaluations about the international agenda. Rubio pointed out that the USA works together with NATO member Türkiye on many issues, and reminded that Turkey hosted negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in the past.

When asked whether the USA would intervene in the event of a problem in the Aegean or Cyprus, Rubio said, "For me, it would be unthinkable for such a thing to happen. These two countries are NATO allies and NATO partners. This is not possible. It would not be good for anyone. Neither for Greece nor for Turkey. It would not be good for the USA either. Therefore, rather than think about it, I would say that this is something we will never allow to happen. I do not believe (such a thing) will happen."

F-35 issue

While answering the question about the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, the US Secretary of State explained his views on this issue as follows:

"Article 1: Turkey is a member of NATO. Article 2: The President (Trump) stated that he would like to provide them with this if possible. They have already paid for some of them. Obviously these planes are years and years away from being delivered, but there are two (ready) that have already been paid for, but there is also a law passed by the US Congress. There is also a provision of the National Defense Authorization Act that imposes very strict conditions, so obviously this sale cannot take place until these conditions are met. This situation has also been conveyed to the Turkish side. They are aware of this, I think that's why "They are looking for a solution. The issue is about the S-400 system. Therefore, as of now, this problem has not been solved and we cannot legally make this delivery until this problem is solved. Maybe it will be solved, there are various options, but it is not solved as of now."

'I hope a solution is found'

US Secretary of State Marko Rubio also spoke about the power line project (GSI) between Greece, the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus (GCASC) and Israel, which has recently been on the agenda with harsh statements between Ankara and Athens. Rubio said:

"We are aware that there are some potential obstacles and some problems that lie ahead. We intend to use our diplomatic efforts to remind all parties why this issue is so important to us. I also hope that solutions will be found... Some of these issues are not best handled through the media or official statements. It is best done within a diplomatic framework, with confidentiality and calm. This is important because we need to prioritize obligations from more than one country."