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Greek American Republican Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis has warned that Turkey should not be given access to America\u2019s most advanced military equipment, raising fresh concerns over Ankara\u2019s possible return to the F 35 fighter jet programme.<\/p>\n
Speaking to Kathimerini, Malliotakis said Turkey\u2019s conduct under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues to create serious security concerns for the United States and its NATO allies.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe 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,\u201d Malliotakis said.<\/p>\n
She specifically pointed to Turkey\u2019s relationships with Russia and Iran, its stance towards Israel, its alleged support for Hamas figures and its conduct towards Greece and Cyprus.<\/p>\n
\u201cI do not think Turkey should, at this time, be receiving our most advanced military equipment, particularly given Erdogan\u2019s close relationships with Russia and Iran,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Malliotakis has opposed Turkey\u2019s return to the F 35 programme, arguing that providing Ankara with the advanced fighter would create risks for both regional and US national security.<\/p>\n
She said Israel, Armenia, Cyprus and Greece all have concerns about Turkey acquiring the aircraft.<\/p>\n
The Greek American lawmaker also cited Turkey\u2019s military overflights over Greek islands and the continuing occupation of part of Cyprus by Turkey as reasons for Washington to exercise caution.<\/p>\n
According to Malliotakis, Congress has been vocal in opposing the potential sale, but the administration may have the authority to proceed without congressional approval.<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t think so,\u201d she said when asked whether Congress could realistically block the sale. \u201cWe can use our voices and our advocacy, and that\u2019s what we\u2019ve done.\u201d<\/p>\n
She added that the administration most likely has the ability to move forward because the prohibition on Turkey\u2019s participation was originally imposed by the executive branch.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cMarco Rubio is one of the strongest supporters of the US Greece Cyprus relationship,\u201d she said, adding that she believes he understands the strategic importance of Greece and Cyprus and the security threats posed by Turkey.<\/p>\n
Malliotakis said Greece should be encouraged by Rubio\u2019s influence over US foreign policy.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think Greece should be pleased about that,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Malliotakis also argued that the Greek American community remains an influential force in Washington but needs to strengthen cooperation with other groups.<\/p>\n
She pointed to cooperation with Armenian organisations and AIPAC as an example of how shared concerns could create a stronger political message.<\/p>\n
The congresswoman said greater coordination could help increase pressure against the transfer of F 35 aircraft to Turkey.<\/p>\n
Malliotakis, whose father immigrated to the United States, also spoke about the influence of her Greek heritage on her political career.<\/p>\n
She said growing up learning about Greece\u2019s contribution to civilisation and democracy made her proud to be Greek American.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Malliotakis said his experience shaped her belief in hard work and the American dream.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m very proud to be the daughter of immigrants,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n