The bipartisan leadership of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues has expressed concern regarding ongoing negotiations with Turkey, particularly about the country’s possible reentry into the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. The statement was issued by Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Chris Pappas (D-NH), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), and Dina Titus (D-NV).
In their statement, the caucus leaders said: “The United States must be very careful when engaging in negotiations particularly as it relates to discussions surrounding Turkey’s potential reentry into the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. Turkey was rightfully removed from the program in 2019 following its acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system—a clear violation of U.S. law under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). President Erdogan’s decision to pursue military collaboration with the Russian Federation, despite Turkey’s NATO obligations, directly undermines the security of U.S. defense technology and poses a threat to the strategic integrity of allied defense cooperation. The continued possession of the S-400 system while seeking access to F-35 fighter jets risks exposing sensitive U.S. military capabilities to Russian intelligence, eroding allied trust, and jeopardizing the development of next-generation military platforms. Beyond this violation of U.S. law, Erdogan’s government has consistently demonstrated a disregard for international norms and democratic principles—from crackdowns on press freedom and political dissent, to aggressive military actions in the regions that have drawn international condemnation. Upholding CAATSA sanctions is not only a matter of legal compliance but a necessary step to protect American defense assets and reaffirm the U.S. commitment to accountability and rule of law in international relations. Rewarding Erdogan’s government without meaningful changes in behavior would set a dangerous precedent and weaken the credibility of U.S. foreign policy. The United States must stand firm in defending its laws, its alliances, and the international order.”
Gus Bilirakis currently serves as a member of Congress representing Florida’s 12th district after succeeding Michael Bilirakis in 2007. He previously served in Florida’s House of Representatives from 1998 until 2006.
Bilirakis was born in Gainesville, Florida in 1963 and resides in Palm Harbor at age 60. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida in 1986 before receiving his JD from Stetson University three years later.
