US, Turkish top diplomats hold State Dept. talks

By Michael Hernandez</p> <p>WASHINGTON (AA) – U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo hosted his Turkish counterpart for talks Wednesday at the State Department.</p> <p>The discussions Mevlut Cavusoglu lasted 40 minutes, but neither the U.S. nor Turkey immediately released details. </p> <p>The talks were expected to focus on an ongoing row between Washington and Ankara concerning Turkey's decision to purchase the Russian S-400 anti-air missile system, in addition to other topics. </p> <p>Turkey's decision to procure the S-400 has led to significantly strained ties, and Washington earlier this week suspended delivery of parts and services necessary to Turkey's receipt of the F-35 stealth jet fighter. </p> <p>U.S. officials have suggested Turkey buy U.S. Patriot missile systems rather than the Russian S-400, arguing it is incompatible with NATO systems, and exposes the F-35 to possible Russian subterfuge, including covert efforts to obtain critical information on the jet, which could then be relayed to Russia.</p> <p>In response to remarks that the S-400 missile system is incompatible with NATO military equipment, Cavusoglu said at a think tank gathering earlier Wednesday that the system would be for Turkey's own use.</p> <p>&quot;It doesn’t have to be integrated to the NATO system, and this is not our aim. It is for our own use, this is a defense system,&quot; he said.</p> <p>&quot;This system will not see any NATO system, including F-35s,&quot; the foreign minister added.