WASHINGTON / ANKARA — A viral YouTube video claims the United States has lifted all sanctions on Türkiye. That headline sounds big—but here’s what’s actually happening, in simple, straight talk.

President Donald Trump has publicly signaled he’s open to lifting U.S. sanctions connected to Türkiye’s 2019 purchase of the Russian S-400 air-defense system. He has also floated the idea that Türkiye could again buy F-35 fighter jets if both sides solve the sticking points. Reporters in Washington captured Trump saying this could happen soon, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said after their meetings that he is hopeful about resolving sanctions, the F-35 question, and even the long-running Halkbank court case in the U.S.

So, did the U.S. already lift everything? No. There is no official notice that all sanctions are gone. What we have is momentum—positive statements, working groups, and negotiations. Reuters and other outlets say both governments are exploring a package: progress on sanctions relief, a pathway on F-35s, and a possible Halkbank settlement (reports mention a number around $100 million, with no admission of guilt). But these are talks, not finished decisions. Courts, Congress, and formal agency actions still matter before anything is final.

What might Washington want in return? Trump and U.S. officials have tied sanctions relief to concrete steps, including cutting purchases of Russian oil and managing the S-400 issue in a way that protects U.S./NATO technology. In plain English: the U.S. wants guarantees that Russian systems won’t touch sensitive American hardware or data, and that Türkiye’s energy trade won’t undercut U.S. Russia policy. These conditions are standard bargaining in big security deals.

Why this matters to Turkish Americans:
If a real deal is signed, it could mean: easier defense cooperation, smoother trade and investment, and less political whiplash in the relationship. Defense ties (F-16 upgrades, F-35 supply chain, co-production) affect real jobs in both countries. A Halkbank resolution could remove a headline risk that has scared investors. And a cleaner channel with Washington is good for exporters, manufacturers, logistics firms, and students who move between the U.S. and Türkiye for work, contracts, and research. (Source)