By: Middle east Eye

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan meets with US President Donald Trump on Thursday amid a convergence of strategic interests, particularly in Syria. However, significant obstacles related to Israel, US Congress, and energy policies could complicate the talks.

Analysts note a strong alignment between the two leaders' regional visions. “Turkey's geopolitical vision fits with the Trump administration's vision of delegating responsibility to allies in the region. There is a convergence of interests,” said Omer Ozkizilcik of the Atlantic Council.

This is evident in Syria, where the US is withdrawing troops and Turkey, along with Gulf states, is increasing its role. A key point of agreement is pressuring the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which Turkey views as a terrorist group, to integrate into the Syrian army. The US has reassigned diplomats perceived as sympathetic to the SDF.

However, Israeli military actions in southern Syria present a major complication. Israel is seeking a wide zone of influence near the Golan Heights, a move that concerns Turkey. “If you count Syria and Gaza together, Israel is the biggest headache in the bilateral relationship,” Ozkizilcik noted.

A significant hurdle for Erdogan is the US Congress, which strongly opposes Turkey’s desire to rejoin the F-35 fighter jet program. Turkey was expelled from the program in 2019 for purchasing Russian S-400 air defense systems. Congressional legislation bans the sale unless Turkey divests itself of the S-400s, a condition Ankara has resisted. Experts believe President Trump faces a "very tough sell" in convincing Congress to change its position.

Energy is another potential friction point. Turkey relies heavily on Russian gas, with 41% of its imports coming from Russia via the TurkStream pipeline. President Trump has advocated for tariffs on countries buying Russian energy and has pressured allies to buy US liquefied natural gas (LNG). While Turkey recently signed a new 20-year deal for US LNG, its long-term pipeline contracts with Russia remain a point of contention.

Despite these challenges, the meeting is expected to yield progress on other areas of defense cooperation, such as drone technology exports.