Greek American lawmaker warns Turkey should not receive F 35 jets

Nicole Malliotakis says Turkey may be a NATO ally on paper, but its actions raise serious security concerns for Greece, Cyprus and the United States

Greek American Republican Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis has warned that Turkey should not be given access to America’s most advanced military equipment, raising fresh concerns over Ankara’s possible return to the F 35 fighter jet programme.

Speaking to Kathimerini, Malliotakis said Turkey’s conduct under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues to create serious security concerns for the United States and its NATO allies.

“The United States should be concerned because, although Turkey is a NATO ally on paper, under Erdogan it often acts as an adversary to other NATO members and countries in the region,” Malliotakis said.

She specifically pointed to Turkey’s relationships with Russia and Iran, its stance towards Israel, its alleged support for Hamas figures and its conduct towards Greece and Cyprus.

“I do not think Turkey should, at this time, be receiving our most advanced military equipment, particularly given Erdogan’s close relationships with Russia and Iran,” she said.

F 35 sale raises concerns in Washington

Malliotakis has opposed Turkey’s return to the F 35 programme, arguing that providing Ankara with the advanced fighter would create risks for both regional and US national security.

She said Israel, Armenia, Cyprus and Greece all have concerns about Turkey acquiring the aircraft.

The Greek American lawmaker also cited Turkey’s military overflights over Greek islands and the continuing occupation of part of Cyprus by Turkey as reasons for Washington to exercise caution.

According to Malliotakis, Congress has been vocal in opposing the potential sale, but the administration may have the authority to proceed without congressional approval.

“I don’t think so,” she said when asked whether Congress could realistically block the sale. “We can use our voices and our advocacy, and that’s what we’ve done.”

She added that the administration most likely has the ability to move forward because the prohibition on Turkey’s participation was originally imposed by the executive branch.

Rubio seen as strong supporter of Greece and Cyprus

Malliotakis also praised US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, describing him as one of the strongest supporters of the US relationship with Greece and Cyprus.

“Marco Rubio is one of the strongest supporters of the US Greece Cyprus relationship,” she said, adding that she believes he understands the strategic importance of Greece and Cyprus and the security threats posed by Turkey.

Malliotakis said Greece should be encouraged by Rubio’s influence over US foreign policy.

“I think Greece should be pleased about that,” she said.

Greek American community urged to unite

Malliotakis also argued that the Greek American community remains an influential force in Washington but needs to strengthen cooperation with other groups.

She pointed to cooperation with Armenian organisations and AIPAC as an example of how shared concerns could create a stronger political message.

The congresswoman said greater coordination could help increase pressure against the transfer of F 35 aircraft to Turkey.

Proud of her Greek heritage

Malliotakis, whose father immigrated to the United States, also spoke about the influence of her Greek heritage on her political career.

She said growing up learning about Greece’s contribution to civilisation and democracy made her proud to be Greek American.

Her father arrived in the United States with just $50, without speaking English and without family or friends in the country. He eventually established a small business and bought a home.

Malliotakis said his experience shaped her belief in hard work and the American dream.

“I’m very proud to be the daughter of immigrants,” she said.

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