German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has lauded Turkey’s acquisition of 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets, describing it as a valuable boost for NATO’s collective defense in response to the growing threat posed by Russia. The deal underscores Turkey’s expanding defense cooperation with European partners and highlights Germany’s role in strengthening the alliance’s air power.
In a joint press briefing, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan diverged from Merz’s remarks on the Gaza conflict, condemning Israel’s airstrikes, which he said had “murdered more than 60,000 civilians.” Despite the disagreement, Merz thanked Erdoğan for his mediation in achieving the October 10 ceasefire and urged continued Turkish involvement to bring Hamas into the next stage of negotiations.
Ankara is also eyeing Berlin’s backing to join the European Union’s SAFE initiative, a 150-billion-euro defense investment program aimed at enhancing Europe’s industrial and strategic resilience. While Turkey meets the eligibility criteria, Greece’s opposition has prevented its formal participation. German officials have indicated potential support, viewing Turkey’s inclusion as a means to improve regional defense collaboration.
Migration issues also featured in the high-level talks, with Germany pressing Turkey to take back rejected asylum seekers and assist with deportations to Syria. In a parallel move, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul visited Damascus to meet President Ahmed al-Sharaa, signaling Berlin’s intent to reengage diplomatically with the Syrian government to address ongoing humanitarian and security challenges.
