During a high-stakes meeting at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump publicly pressed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to halt Turkey’s imports of oil from Russia. The push comes amid rising tensions over energy trade and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
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What Trump Said & Why It Matters

Standing beside Erdoğan in the Oval Office, Trump told reporters, “I’d like to have him stop buying any oil from Russia while Russia continues this rampage.”
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He argued that Turkey — a NATO member — should reduce its energy ties with Moscow, saying it could have significant influence.
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Trump also signaled that ending Russia imports might help mend U.S.-Turkey relations. He suggested that if Turkey responds positively, the U.S. could lift sanctions and even resume selling advanced fighter jets (such as the F-35) to Ankara.
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Turkey’s Position & Erdoğan’s Response

Erdogan has long tried to balance relations with both Russia and the West. Turkey buys significant amounts of Russian oil, gas, and coal — making it one of the major energy customers of Moscow among NATO countries.
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During the meeting, Erdoğan avoided a clear commitment to stop the imports. Instead, he expressed support for peace efforts and emphasized that Turkey would continue considering its national interests.
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The Bigger Picture: Energy, Sanctions & Strategy

Trump’s pressure fits a broader strategy: reducing Russia’s income from oil and gas trade, thus limiting its ability to fund military operations in Ukraine.
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Turkey, however, argues that it needs stable, affordable energy, and that sudden cuts could hurt its economy. It also values maintaining diplomatic ties with Russia — for security, trade, and regional influence.
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For the U.S., persuading a NATO ally like Turkey to reduce energy dependence on Russia is not just symbolic — it’s strategic. If Turkey cuts imports, it could increase pressure on Moscow and help isolate Russia in the global market.
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What Might Happen Next

Trump may follow through by lifting sanctions and fast-tracking F-35 sales, but only if Turkey agrees to cut Russian energy ties.
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Turkey might partially reduce its imports, diversify energy sources, or renegotiate terms.

If Erdoğan refuses or delays significantly, U.S.-Turkey relations could strain again, especially over defense or trade cooperation.

In simple terms, Trump is telling Erdoğan: “Cut off Russian oil trade, and we can rebuild a stronger U.S.–Turkey partnership.” Whether Erdoğan will agree — or how far he’ll go — remains to be seen.