Turkish FM denies Ankara delaying Russian S-400 deal

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has denied that Ankara is delaying the purchase of S-400 missile defense systems from Russia amid tensions with Washington.

Cavusoglu told reporters on Wednesday that “there is no question of any delay or of any halting at this point.” He reiterated that Turkey’s purchase of the Russian-made systems is a “done deal,” Reuters reported.

The issue has caused a deep rift with the US, which says the Russian missiles pose a threat to the US F-35 fighter jet program of which Turkey is also a partner. Media reports said earlier Turkey would delay the purchase.