Turkey on Wednesday lambasted an "unfair" US move to exclude the country from the<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/world/us-removing-turkey-from-f-35-programme-after-its-russian-missile-defence-purchase-236770"> F-35 stealth fighter jet</a> programme over Ankara's controversial purchase of a Russian missile defence system.

"This one-sided step neither complies with the spirit of alliance nor is it based on legitimate reasons," the Turkish foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

"It is unfair to remove Turkey, one of the partners in the F-35 programme," the ministry said, as it dismissed claims the Russian S-400 system would be a danger to the F-35s.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-turkey-cant-have-both-s-400-and-f-35-236783/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Turkey has ordered more than 100 of the F-35 fighter jets, while its defence industry has invested significant sums into the production of the warplanes.

"We invite the US to take back this error which will pave the way to irreparable damage to our strategic relations," the Turkish ministry added.

Earlier on Wednesday, the United States confirmed Turkey's exclusion from the programme after repeated warnings.

The US-made F-35 Joint Strike Fighter "cannot coexist with a Russian intelligence collection platform that will be used to learn about its advanced capabilities," White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said.

Turkish F-35 technicians and pilots training in the US would also be sent back by the end of this month.

The first delivery of the S-400 system from Russia began last week and further equipment has since been arriving every day by plane to an airbase in Ankara.

Relations between the NATO allies have deteriorated since Ankara's purchase from Russia but there have been strains over multiple issues including US support to a Syrian Kurdish militia viewed as terrorists by Turkey.

The Turkish ministry called on the US to show the importance of the Ankara-Washington relationship "not just through words but through action and especially in the fight against terrorist organisations." 
&nbsp;

Turkey on Wednesday lambasted an "unfair" US move to exclude the country from the F-35 stealth fighter jet programme over Ankara's controversial purchase of a Russian missile defence system.

Turkey on Wednesday lambasted an "unfair" US move to exclude the country from the F-35 stealth fighter jet programme over Ankara's controversial purchase of a Russian missile defence system. "This one-sided step neither complies with the spirit of alliance nor is it based on legitimate reasons," the Turkish foreign ministry said in a statement. "It is unfair to remove Turkey, one of the partners in the F-35 programme," the ministry said, as it dismissed claims the Russian S-400 system would be a danger to the F-35s. Watch Video: Turkey has ordered more than 100 of the F-35 fighter jets, while its defence industry has invested significant sums into the production of the warplanes. "We invite the US to take back this error which will pave the way to irreparable damage to our strategic relations," the Turkish ministry added. Earlier on Wednesday, the United States confirmed Turkey's exclusion from the programme after repeated warnings. The US-made F-35 Joint Strike Fighter "cannot coexist with a Russian intelligence collection platform that will be used to learn about its advanced capabilities," White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said. Turkish F-35 technicians and pilots training in the US would also be sent back by the end of this month. The first delivery of the S-400 system from Russia began last week and further equipment has since been arriving every day by plane to an airbase in Ankara. Relations between the NATO allies have deteriorated since Ankara's purchase from Russia but there have been strains over multiple issues including US support to a Syrian Kurdish militia viewed as terrorists by Turkey. The Turkish ministry called on the US to show the importance of the Ankara-Washington relationship "not just through words but through action and especially in the fight against terrorist organisations."

Unfair to remove one of the partners in F-35 programme: Turkey to US

Fifteen people were killed and 28 wounded after a minibus carrying migrants overturned in eastern Turkey on Thursday, the private news agency DHA reported.

Women and children figured among the victims and their nationalities were not known.

Police and ambulance services were rushed to the scene in Van province near the Iranian border, DHA reported, adding that they had entered Turkey illegally.

The death toll was initially reported to be 14 but Van governor Emin Bilmez was quoted by DHA later saying the death toll had risen to 15.

Images in Turkish media showed the damaged minibus in a field with several rescue workers tending to the injured in Ozalp district close to the border with Iran.

The agency reported that the driver lost control of the vehicle but there were no immediate details on the cause of the accident which took place at 0900 GMT. 
&nbsp;

Fifteen people were killed and 28 wounded after a minibus carrying migrants overturned in eastern Turkey on Thursday, the private news agency DHA reported. Women and children figured among the victims and their nationalities were not known.

Fifteen people were killed and 28 wounded after a minibus carrying migrants overturned in eastern Turkey on Thursday, the private news agency DHA reported. Women and children figured among the victims and their nationalities were not known. Police and ambulance services were rushed to the scene in Van province near the Iranian border, DHA reported, adding that they had entered Turkey illegally. The death toll was initially reported to be 14 but Van governor Emin Bilmez was quoted by DHA later saying the death toll had risen to 15. Images in Turkish media showed the damaged minibus in a field with several rescue workers tending to the injured in Ozalp district close to the border with Iran. The agency reported that the driver lost control of the vehicle but there were no immediate details on the cause of the accident which took place at 0900 GMT.

15 migrants killed in Turkey after minibus overturns; nationality unknown

President Donald Trump declined Tuesday to criticize <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-president-recep-tayyip-erdogan-says-trump-can-waive-sanctions-on-turkey-report-236013">Turkey's</a> acquisition of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-hails-s-400-deal-as-turkey-marks-2016-coup-bid-anniversary-236260">Russian missile system</a> assailed by the Pentagon and NATO, making no mention of sanctions Washington had threatened over the purchase.

In his first comments since Turkey began taking delivery of the S-400 system last Friday, Trump said Turkey was forced into the move by his predecessor Barack Obama, and that he understood why they opted to buy the Russian missiles.

"I've had a good relationship with President (Recep Tayyip) Erdogan," Trump told journalists.

"It's a very tough situation that they're in and it's a very tough situation that we've been placed in.... With all of that being said, we're working through it — we'll see what happens."

Trump called it a "complex situation," noting that the Pentagon has suspended Turkey from participating in the NATO F-35 fighter jet production program and from buying a planned 100 F-35s.

"Because they have a system of missiles that's made in Russia, they're now prohibited from buying over 100 planes. I would say that Lockheed isn't exactly happy. That's a lot of jobs," Trump said, referring to the F-35 manufacturer Lockheed Martin.

Congress urges sanctions

Trump's comments appeared to put him at odds with Congress and the Pentagon's view, that placing the S-400 system alongside the F-35 was a threat to the US and NATO air systems.

"Turkey has been a long-standing and very capable NATO ally, but their decision on the S-400 is the wrong one and it's disappointing," Mark Esper, Trump's nominee as secretary of defence, told the Senate Armed Services Committee earlier Tuesday.

"Acquisition of the S-400 fundamentally undermines the capability of the F-35 and our ability to maintain that overmatch in the skies," Esper said.

Esper said he had already told Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar that his policy is, "You can either have the S-400 or the F-35. You cannot have both."

On Friday senior Republican and Democratic senators of the armed services and foreign relations committees urged Trump to implement new sanctions on Turkey and directly "terminate" Turkey's participation in the F-35 program.

"By accepting delivery of the S-400 from Russia, President Erdogan has chosen a perilous partnership with (Russian President Vladimir) Putin at the expense of Turkey's security, economic prosperity and the integrity of the NATO alliance," they said in a statement.

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Tuesday that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Trump are reviewing Congressional legislation passed in 2017 that mandates sanctions for any "significant" purchases of weapons from Russia.

Asked if there could be a waiver, Ortagus said: "I think that the secretary and the president will make a decision based off what they are required to do according to US law," without specifying a timeline for the decision.

'Not a fair situation'

But Trump took a softer line as other officials of his administration who had, in the past, expressed strong opposition to the S-400 deal remained silent.

"We have a situation where Turkey is very good with us, very good," Trump said, noting Ankara's release last October of a US Christian pastor held for two years by the government.

"And we are now telling Turkey that because you have really been forced to buy another missile system, we're not going to sell you the F-35 fighter jets.

"And because of the fact he bought a Russian missile, we're not allowed to sell him billions of dollars worth of aircraft. It's not a fair situation," Trump said.

Turkey initially sought in 2009 to buy the US Patriot missile defence system, and a $7.8 billion deal was tentatively approved by the Obama administration.

But Washington balked when Ankara, seeking to boost its technology base, insisted on Turkey producing some of the system components itself as part of the deal.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump declined Tuesday to criticize Turkey's acquisition of a Russian missile system assailed by the Pentagon and NATO, making no mention of sanctions Washington had threatened over the purchase.

President Donald Trump declined Tuesday to criticize Turkey's acquisition of a Russian missile system assailed by the Pentagon and NATO, making no mention of sanctions Washington had threatened over the purchase. In his first comments since Turkey began taking delivery of the S-400 system last Friday, Trump said Turkey was forced into the move by his predecessor Barack Obama, and that he understood why they opted to buy the Russian missiles. "I've had a good relationship with President (Recep Tayyip) Erdogan," Trump told journalists. "It's a very tough situation that they're in and it's a very tough situation that we've been placed in.... With all of that being said, we're working through it — we'll see what happens." Trump called it a "complex situation," noting that the Pentagon has suspended Turkey from participating in the NATO F-35 fighter jet production program and from buying a planned 100 F-35s. "Because they have a system of missiles that's made in Russia, they're now prohibited from buying over 100 planes. I would say that Lockheed isn't exactly happy. That's a lot of jobs," Trump said, referring to the F-35 manufacturer Lockheed Martin. Congress urges sanctions Trump's comments appeared to put him at odds with Congress and the Pentagon's view, that placing the S-400 system alongside the F-35 was a threat to the US and NATO air systems. "Turkey has been a long-standing and very capable NATO ally, but their decision on the S-400 is the wrong one and it's disappointing," Mark Esper, Trump's nominee as secretary of defence, told the Senate Armed Services Committee earlier Tuesday. "Acquisition of the S-400 fundamentally undermines the capability of the F-35 and our ability to maintain that overmatch in the skies," Esper said. Esper said he had already told Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar that his policy is, "You can either have the S-400 or the F-35. You cannot have both." On Friday senior Republican and Democratic senators of the armed services and foreign relations committees urged Trump to implement new sanctions on Turkey and directly "terminate" Turkey's participation in the F-35 program. "By accepting delivery of the S-400 from Russia, President Erdogan has chosen a perilous partnership with (Russian President Vladimir) Putin at the expense of Turkey's security, economic prosperity and the integrity of the NATO alliance," they said in a statement. State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Tuesday that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Trump are reviewing Congressional legislation passed in 2017 that mandates sanctions for any "significant" purchases of weapons from Russia. Asked if there could be a waiver, Ortagus said: "I think that the secretary and the president will make a decision based off what they are required to do according to US law," without specifying a timeline for the decision. 'Not a fair situation' But Trump took a softer line as other officials of his administration who had, in the past, expressed strong opposition to the S-400 deal remained silent. "We have a situation where Turkey is very good with us, very good," Trump said, noting Ankara's release last October of a US Christian pastor held for two years by the government. "And we are now telling Turkey that because you have really been forced to buy another missile system, we're not going to sell you the F-35 fighter jets. "And because of the fact he bought a Russian missile, we're not allowed to sell him billions of dollars worth of aircraft. It's not a fair situation," Trump said. Turkey initially sought in 2009 to buy the US Patriot missile defence system, and a $7.8 billion deal was tentatively approved by the Obama administration. But Washington balked when Ankara, seeking to boost its technology base, insisted on Turkey producing some of the system components itself as part of the deal.

Trump cites 'good relationship' with Turkey despite Russian missile purchase

President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Defense Department called Turkey's acquisition of a Russian missile defense system "disappointing" Tuesday, in the administration's first comment since the first S-400 missile parts were delivered last week.

"It's certainly disappointing," Defense Secretary nominee Mark Esper told his Senate confirmation hearing.

"Turkey has been a long-standing and very capable NATO ally, but their decision on the S-400 is the wrong one and it's disappointing," he said.

Esper said he would abide by the decision last year to drop Turkey from NATO's F-35 fighter jet development program due to Ankara’s decision to buy the S-400 system, the delivery of which began on Friday.

Esper said he had already told Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar that his policy is, "You can either have the S-400 or the F-35. You cannot have both."

"Acquisition of the S-400 fundamentally undermines the capability of the F-35 and our ability to maintain that overmatch in the skies going forward," Esper told the Senate panel.

Despite warning Ankara multiple times over the past two years that it could face sanctions and other retaliatory action for acquiring the Russian system, Washington officials have been silent since the deliveries began Friday.

It was not clear if new sanctions, demanded by the US Congress, would be enacted.

But in May the Pentagon said it was preparing to cut Turkey out of the network of manufacturers supplying parts to the F-35.

A number of Turkish manufacturers are making parts and equipment for the F-35, including internally carried Stand-off Missiles, airframe assemblies and wiring, leaving the NATO program partially dependent on them.

On Monday Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hailed the delivery of the first S-400 equipment and said the next step was to jointly produce the system.

"We have begun to receive our S-400s. Some said, 'they cannot buy them'... God willing the final part of this (delivery) will be in April 2020," Erdogan told a crowd of several thousand in Ankara.

President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Defense Department called Turkey's acquisition of a Russian missile defense system "disappointing" Tuesday, in the administration's first comment since the first S-400 missile parts were delivered last week.

President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Defense Department called Turkey's acquisition of a Russian missile defense system "disappointing" Tuesday, in the administration's first comment since the first S-400 missile parts were delivered last week. "It's certainly disappointing," Defense Secretary nominee Mark Esper told his Senate confirmation hearing. "Turkey has been a long-standing and very capable NATO ally, but their decision on the S-400 is the wrong one and it's disappointing," he said. Esper said he would abide by the decision last year to drop Turkey from NATO's F-35 fighter jet development program due to Ankara’s decision to buy the S-400 system, the delivery of which began on Friday. Esper said he had already told Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar that his policy is, "You can either have the S-400 or the F-35. You cannot have both." "Acquisition of the S-400 fundamentally undermines the capability of the F-35 and our ability to maintain that overmatch in the skies going forward," Esper told the Senate panel. Despite warning Ankara multiple times over the past two years that it could face sanctions and other retaliatory action for acquiring the Russian system, Washington officials have been silent since the deliveries began Friday. It was not clear if new sanctions, demanded by the US Congress, would be enacted. But in May the Pentagon said it was preparing to cut Turkey out of the network of manufacturers supplying parts to the F-35. A number of Turkish manufacturers are making parts and equipment for the F-35, including internally carried Stand-off Missiles, airframe assemblies and wiring, leaving the NATO program partially dependent on them. On Monday Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hailed the delivery of the first S-400 equipment and said the next step was to jointly produce the system. "We have begun to receive our S-400s. Some said, 'they cannot buy them'... God willing the final part of this (delivery) will be in April 2020," Erdogan told a crowd of several thousand in Ankara.

Turkey's Russian missile buy 'disappointing': Pentagon nominee

First parts of S-400 missile system land in Turkey. S-400 among most advanced missile defence system. U.S condemns Turkey's use of Russian military tech. Watch this video to know more.

U.S: Will talk to Turkey on S-400 deal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-ignores-us-warnings-as-it-continues-to-take-delivery-of-russias-s-400-235504">Turkey ignores US warnings as it continues to take delivery of Russia's S-400</a>

Turkey ignored US warnings as it continued Saturday to take delivery of Russia's S-400 missile defence system near Ankara, news agency AFP reported quoting a defence minstry statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-police-warning-to-media-over-diplomats-leaked-memos-stirs-anger-235520">UK police warning to media over diplomat's leaked memos stirs anger</a>

Senior British politicians, including both contenders to be the next prime minister, joined journalists on Saturday in criticising police for warning media not to publish leaked government documents, saying it was a "dangerous road to tread".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-residents-huddle-at-home-and-in-bars-ahead-of-hurricane-235521">New Orleans residents huddle at home, and in bars, ahead of hurricane</a>

Tropical Storm Barry, poised to make landfall as the first Atlantic hurricane of 2019, churned ever closer to Louisiana's shore early on Saturday as most New Orleans residents huddled at home, or in bars, bracing for the threat of severe flooding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-lunar-mission-why-the-interest-in-moon-235503">Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission: Why the interest in moon?</a>

India's ambitious Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission to the moon is all set for launch on July 15 at 2:51am.

This will be India's first attempt to land on the moon and the rover will go to the moon's south pole where no country has gone before.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-feels-like-its-their-time-steve-waugh-picks-england-to-lift-world-cup-235537">'It feels like it's their time': Steve Waugh picks England to lift World Cup</a>

Former Australian cricketer Steve Waugh believes that England are favourites to win the Cricket World Cup 2019 considering their current momentum.&nbsp;

England will face New Zealand in the final battle bidding to win the tournament for the first time. Both the countries have never won the World Cup before and Sunday's winner would create cricketing history.

Turkey ignores US warnings as it continues to take delivery of Russia's S-400 Turkey ignored US warnings as it continued Saturday to take delivery of Russia's S-400 missile defence system near Ankara, news agency AFP reported quoting a defence minstry statement.

Turkey ignores US warnings as it continues to take delivery of Russia's S-400 Turkey ignored US warnings as it continued Saturday to take delivery of Russia's S-400 missile defence system near Ankara, news agency AFP reported quoting a defence minstry statement. UK police warning to media over diplomat's leaked memos stirs anger Senior British politicians, including both contenders to be the next prime minister, joined journalists on Saturday in criticising police for warning media not to publish leaked government documents, saying it was a "dangerous road to tread". New Orleans residents huddle at home, and in bars, ahead of hurricane Tropical Storm Barry, poised to make landfall as the first Atlantic hurricane of 2019, churned ever closer to Louisiana's shore early on Saturday as most New Orleans residents huddled at home, or in bars, bracing for the threat of severe flooding. Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission: Why the interest in moon? India's ambitious Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission to the moon is all set for launch on July 15 at 2:51am. This will be India's first attempt to land on the moon and the rover will go to the moon's south pole where no country has gone before. 'It feels like it's their time': Steve Waugh picks England to lift World Cup Former Australian cricketer Steve Waugh believes that England are favourites to win the Cricket World Cup 2019 considering their current momentum. England will face New Zealand in the final battle bidding to win the tournament for the first time. Both the countries have never won the World Cup before and Sunday's winner would create cricketing history.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Turkey ignored US warnings as it continued Saturday to take delivery of Russia's S-400 missile defence system near Ankara, news agency AFP reported quoting&nbsp;a defence minstry statement.

"Delivery of S-400 Long Range Air and Missile Defence Systems resumed today," the statement said.

"The fourth Russian plane carrying S-400 parts landed at Murted Airport outside Ankara," it added.

The US fears that if Ankara integrates the S-400 into its defences, data about the US-built F-35 fighter jet could leak back to the Russians, and Washington has threatened to deny Turkey access to the stealth aircraft, the report added.

The western <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-concerned-by-turkeys-acquisition-of-russias-s-400-missile-defence-system-235300">defence alliance NATO</a>&nbsp;said Friday it was "concerned" by Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 missile defence system after Ankara took delivery of its first batch.

The alliance has repeatedly warned Turkey that the Russian system is incompatible with other NATO weapons systems, not least the F-35 fighter jet.

Members of the US Congress have repeatedly voiced opposition to the move and threatened sanctions.

"President Erdogan was given a very clear choice. Unfortunately, he has clearly made the wrong one," said Eliot Engel and Michael McFaul, the top Democrat and Republican respectively on the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Ankara rejects the US warnings, and on Friday, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told reporters: "We say this each time. This is a done deal. The process continues."

(With inputs from AFP)

Turkey ignored US warnings as it continued Saturday to take delivery of Russia's S-400 missile defence system near Ankara, news agency AFP reported quoting a defence minstry statement.

Turkey ignored US warnings as it continued Saturday to take delivery of Russia's S-400 missile defence system near Ankara, news agency AFP reported quoting a defence minstry statement. "Delivery of S-400 Long Range Air and Missile Defence Systems resumed today," the statement said. "The fourth Russian plane carrying S-400 parts landed at Murted Airport outside Ankara," it added. The US fears that if Ankara integrates the S-400 into its defences, data about the US-built F-35 fighter jet could leak back to the Russians, and Washington has threatened to deny Turkey access to the stealth aircraft, the report added. The western defence alliance NATO said Friday it was "concerned" by Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 missile defence system after Ankara took delivery of its first batch. The alliance has repeatedly warned Turkey that the Russian system is incompatible with other NATO weapons systems, not least the F-35 fighter jet. Members of the US Congress have repeatedly voiced opposition to the move and threatened sanctions. "President Erdogan was given a very clear choice. Unfortunately, he has clearly made the wrong one," said Eliot Engel and Michael McFaul, the top Democrat and Republican respectively on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Ankara rejects the US warnings, and on Friday, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told reporters: "We say this each time. This is a done deal. The process continues." (With inputs from AFP)

Turkey ignores US warnings as it continues to take delivery of Russia's S-400

NATO said Friday it was "concerned" by Turkey's acquisition of Russia's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-part-of-russian-s-400-missile-defence-system-delivered-turkey-235249">S-400 missile defence system</a> after Ankara took delivery of its first batch.

The alliance has repeatedly warned Turkey that the Russian system is incompatible with other NATO weapons systems, not least the F-35 fighter jet.

"We are concerned about the potential consequences of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-a-problem-trump-tells-erdogan-on-russia-s-400-missile-deal-231388">Turkey's decision</a> to acquire the S-400 system," a NATO official told AFP.

"Interoperability of our armed forces is fundamental to NATO for the conduct of our operations and missions."

The US fears that if NATO member Turkey integrates the S-400 into its defences, there is a risk that sensitive data about the F-35, a new generation multi-role stealth fighter, could leak back to the Russians.

Watch:&nbsp;Parts of S-400 missile system unloaded at Turkish air base

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/parts-of-s-400-missile-system-unloaded-at-turkish-air-base-235354/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

President Donald Trump's pick for Pentagon chief, Mark Esper, confronted the Turkish defence minister about the deal on the sidelines of a NATO meeting last month.

Washington has threatened to expel Turkey from its F-35 programme, giving Ankara until July 31 to cancel the S-400 purchase or have its pilots kicked off the training course and expelled from the US.

But Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has refused to back down and said he is confident Turkey will not face US sanctions.

NATO said Friday it was "concerned" by Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 missile defence system after Ankara took delivery of its first batch. The alliance has repeatedly warned Turkey that the Russian system is incompatible with other NATO weapons systems, not least the F-35 fighter jet.

NATO said Friday it was "concerned" by Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 missile defence system after Ankara took delivery of its first batch. The alliance has repeatedly warned Turkey that the Russian system is incompatible with other NATO weapons systems, not least the F-35 fighter jet. "We are concerned about the potential consequences of Turkey's decision to acquire the S-400 system," a NATO official told AFP. "Interoperability of our armed forces is fundamental to NATO for the conduct of our operations and missions." The US fears that if NATO member Turkey integrates the S-400 into its defences, there is a risk that sensitive data about the F-35, a new generation multi-role stealth fighter, could leak back to the Russians. Watch: Parts of S-400 missile system unloaded at Turkish air base President Donald Trump's pick for Pentagon chief, Mark Esper, confronted the Turkish defence minister about the deal on the sidelines of a NATO meeting last month. Washington has threatened to expel Turkey from its F-35 programme, giving Ankara until July 31 to cancel the S-400 purchase or have its pilots kicked off the training course and expelled from the US. But Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has refused to back down and said he is confident Turkey will not face US sanctions.

NATO 'concerned' by Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 missile defence system 

Turkish defence minister confirms S-400 delivery. Turkey bought S-400 missile system from Russia. U.S had threatened Turkey with the sanctions. Washington sees S-400 as a threat to U.S jets. Watch this video to know more.

Turkey defies U.S. pressure over S-400

Turkish defence minister confirms S-400 delivery

Turkey's defence ministry said the first parts of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-a-problem-trump-tells-erdogan-on-russia-s-400-missile-deal-231388">S-400 Russian missile defence</a> systems were delivered to Ankara on Friday.

Turkey's acquisition of the Russian system is a source of tension between Turkey and NATO ally United States.

"The delivery of parts belonging to the system will continue in the coming days," Turkey's defence industry directorate said separately. "Once the system is completely ready, it will begin to be used in a way determined by the relevant authorities," it added.

A Russian Air Force AN-124 cargo plane had flown to Turkey early on Friday morning and was last tracked approaching Ankara, data from Flightradar24 website showed. Turkish broadcasters showed footage of the plane at the Murted Air Base.

Turkey had earlier called on the United States to avoid steps harmful to bilateral relations after the US State Department spokeswoman reiterated Ankara would face "real and negative consequences" for acquiring<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-s-400-missile-delivery-to-turkey-will-have-consequences-us-230313"> Russian S-400 defence systems</a>.

Turkey's foreign ministry spokesman had said the comments by the State Department's Morgan Ortagus were not in line with the spirit and content of talks between presidents of the two countries at the G20 summit last month.

President Tayyip Erdogan said after meeting President Donald Trump in Osaka that the United States did not plan to impose sanctions on Ankara for buying the S-400s, which he said would arrive in the first half of July. Trump said Turkey had not been treated fairly but did not rule out sanctions.

The United States says the S-400s are not compatible with NATO's defence network and could compromise its Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter jets, an aircraft Turkey is helping to build and planning to buy.

Turkey could face expulsion from the F-35 programme and other US&nbsp;sanctions if it goes ahead with the S-400 delivery. Washington has already halted training of Turkish pilots in the United States on the aircraft.

Turkey's defence ministry said the first parts of the S-400 Russian missile defence systems were delivered to Ankara on Friday. Turkey's acquisition of the Russian system is a source of tension between Turkey and NATO ally United States.

Turkey's defence ministry said the first parts of the S-400 Russian missile defence systems were delivered to Ankara on Friday. Turkey's acquisition of the Russian system is a source of tension between Turkey and NATO ally United States. "The delivery of parts belonging to the system will continue in the coming days," Turkey's defence industry directorate said separately. "Once the system is completely ready, it will begin to be used in a way determined by the relevant authorities," it added. A Russian Air Force AN-124 cargo plane had flown to Turkey early on Friday morning and was last tracked approaching Ankara, data from Flightradar24 website showed. Turkish broadcasters showed footage of the plane at the Murted Air Base. Turkey had earlier called on the United States to avoid steps harmful to bilateral relations after the US State Department spokeswoman reiterated Ankara would face "real and negative consequences" for acquiring Russian S-400 defence systems. Turkey's foreign ministry spokesman had said the comments by the State Department's Morgan Ortagus were not in line with the spirit and content of talks between presidents of the two countries at the G20 summit last month. President Tayyip Erdogan said after meeting President Donald Trump in Osaka that the United States did not plan to impose sanctions on Ankara for buying the S-400s, which he said would arrive in the first half of July. Trump said Turkey had not been treated fairly but did not rule out sanctions. The United States says the S-400s are not compatible with NATO's defence network and could compromise its Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter jets, an aircraft Turkey is helping to build and planning to buy. Turkey could face expulsion from the F-35 programme and other US sanctions if it goes ahead with the S-400 delivery. Washington has already halted training of Turkish pilots in the United States on the aircraft.

First part of Russian S-400 missile defence system delivered: Turkey

Turkish defence minister confirms S-400 delivery. Turkey bought S-400 missile system from Russia. U.S had threatened Turkey with sanctions. Washington sees S-400 as threat to U.S jets. S-400 is an advance air defence system. Watch this video to know more.

Turkey bought S-400 despite U.S warning

An official Turkish visit to the troubled north-western Chinese province of Xinjiang to assess reports of a brutal crackdown on the region’s Turkic Muslims could shape Turkey’s challenge to conservative Gulf states’ leadership of the Islamic world and complicate Muslim silence about the most frontal assault on their faith in recent history.

The visit to assess the situation in Xinjiang was agreed in talks with Chinese leaders when Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan raised the issue during a recent visit to Beijing.

Erdogan appeared to set the tone for the visit by declaring that it was possible to "Find a solution to this issue that takes into consideration the sensitivities on both sides."

Walking a fine line, Erdogan went on to say that "those who exploit the issue…by acting emotionally without thinking of the relationship that Turkey has with another country, unfortunately, end up costing both the Turkish republic and their kinsman."

For its part, China seemingly sought to frame the Turkish visit with state-run China Daily newspaper quoting Erdogan as telling Chinese leaders that "It is a fact that the people of all ethnicities in Xinjiang are leading a happy life amid China's development and prosperity."

Turkey has in the past sought unsuccessfully to mediate tensions in Xinjiang in part by agreeing with Beijing on an investment program in the Chinese region.

For Turkey, the visit amounts to a risky gamble.

A Turkish confirmation of the extent of the crackdown would position Erdogan as a leader willing to defend Muslim causes that other leaders have chosen to ignore much like he attempted last year to take the lead on denouncing US recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

Turkey earlier this year briefly appeared to be willing to take on the Xinjiang issue when its foreign ministry harshly condemned Chinese policy but has largely remained silent since.

In response to the criticism, China temporarily closed its consulate in the Mediterranean port city of Izmir, warned Chinese residents and travellers to Turkey to “Be wary and pay attention to their personal safety,” and threatened further economic retaliation.

If Turkey, on the basis of the visit, were to endorse China’s assertion that it is countering extremism by offering voluntary vocational training to Turkic Muslims, it would be granting a significant victory to China given Turkey’s ethnic and cultural ties to the Xinjiang Muslim community.

It would project Erdogan as just one more Muslim leader who for economic and commercial reasons was willing to cold-shoulder co-religionists in a time of need.

An endorsement would group Erdogan with men like Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman who earlier this year during a visit to Beijing recognized China’s right to undertake "anti-terrorism" and "de-extremism" measures and Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan and Indonesian president Joko Widodo who professed to be unaware of the situation in Xinjiang.

Trying to balance Turkey’s position as a safe haven for Turkic Muslims while maintaining close ties to China, Turkey last month said it had granted 146,000 residence permits to members of various Turkic communities, including an estimated 35,000 Uyghurs.

“You don’t need to worry. I want you to know that we will use every chance in favour of you to provide that you will reach tomorrow as citizens of the Republic of Turkey, brotherly and sisterly,” interior minister Suleyman Soylu told a breaking of the Ramadan fast dinner.

China’s past attempts to convince foreign diplomats even if they remained publicly silent and journalists of its version of events by taking them on guided tours of Xinjiang have largely produced moderate results at best.

How Turkey handles the visit to Xinjiang is likely to resonate in major parts of the Islamic world.

The delegation’s conclusion is likely to come as pressure plays out on the Sudanese military by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to revisit several Turkish contracts concluded with ousted president Omar al-Bashir, including the development of Khartoum airport and a port on Suakin Island.

The port project would put Turkey too close for comfort to the Saudi Red Sea coast and challenge the UAE’s effort to dominate East African ports.

Turkish criticism of China could also complicate efforts by Central Asian governments to ignore Xinjiang even if ethnic Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, Uzbeks and other Central Asians are among the detainees in the Chinese region, sparking anti-Chinese sentiment in former Soviet republics.

Kyrgyz President Sooronbai Jeenbekov, meeting Chinese president Xi Jinping a day before leaders of the eight Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) countries gathered in Bishkek last month, described the situation in Xinjiang as an “internal (Chinese) matter.”

The SCO groups Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, and Pakistan.

A critical Turkish stance could further aggravate problems, at least in Kyrgyzstan, stemming from China’s promotion of a non-competitive Xinjiang-based company competing for a major infrastructure project.

China’s insistence that TBEA, a little-known contractor with at best modest experience in building and repairing power stations, be granted a $386 million contract to refurbish Bishkek’s ageing plant has landed former Kyrgyz prime minister Sapar Isakov in court on corruption charges.

TBEA was awarded the contract despite lower bids by a competing Chinese company and a Russian company with an established track record.

It was not clear to what degree the push for TBEA was driven by an effort to line the pockets of corrupt officials and/or geopolitical objectives. China sees Central Asia and Pakistan as key drivers of economic development in Xinjiang.

Said Yang Shu, head of the Institute for Central Asia Studies at Lanzhou University in north-western China, commenting on Chinese strategy: “For countries that have good relations with China and have similar problems, it is easy for both to reach consensus on the Xinjiang issue. For other countries, explanations will not have much effect… But overall, it’s better to do it than not to do it.”

After vacillating between silence and criticism, the Turkish visit is likely to determine where Turkey really stands. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

An official Turkish visit to the troubled north-western Chinese province of Xinjiang to assess reports of a brutal crackdown on the region’s Turkic Muslims could shape Turkey’s challenge to conservative Gulf states’ leadership of the Islamic world and complicate Muslim silence about the most frontal assault on their faith in recent history.

An official Turkish visit to the troubled north-western Chinese province of Xinjiang to assess reports of a brutal crackdown on the region’s Turkic Muslims could shape Turkey’s challenge to conservative Gulf states’ leadership of the Islamic world and complicate Muslim silence about the most frontal assault on their faith in recent history. The visit to assess the situation in Xinjiang was agreed in talks with Chinese leaders when Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan raised the issue during a recent visit to Beijing. Erdogan appeared to set the tone for the visit by declaring that it was possible to "Find a solution to this issue that takes into consideration the sensitivities on both sides." Walking a fine line, Erdogan went on to say that "those who exploit the issue…by acting emotionally without thinking of the relationship that Turkey has with another country, unfortunately, end up costing both the Turkish republic and their kinsman." For its part, China seemingly sought to frame the Turkish visit with state-run China Daily newspaper quoting Erdogan as telling Chinese leaders that "It is a fact that the people of all ethnicities in Xinjiang are leading a happy life amid China's development and prosperity." Turkey has in the past sought unsuccessfully to mediate tensions in Xinjiang in part by agreeing with Beijing on an investment program in the Chinese region. For Turkey, the visit amounts to a risky gamble. A Turkish confirmation of the extent of the crackdown would position Erdogan as a leader willing to defend Muslim causes that other leaders have chosen to ignore much like he attempted last year to take the lead on denouncing US recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Turkey earlier this year briefly appeared to be willing to take on the Xinjiang issue when its foreign ministry harshly condemned Chinese policy but has largely remained silent since. In response to the criticism, China temporarily closed its consulate in the Mediterranean port city of Izmir, warned Chinese residents and travellers to Turkey to “Be wary and pay attention to their personal safety,” and threatened further economic retaliation. If Turkey, on the basis of the visit, were to endorse China’s assertion that it is countering extremism by offering voluntary vocational training to Turkic Muslims, it would be granting a significant victory to China given Turkey’s ethnic and cultural ties to the Xinjiang Muslim community. It would project Erdogan as just one more Muslim leader who for economic and commercial reasons was willing to cold-shoulder co-religionists in a time of need. An endorsement would group Erdogan with men like Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman who earlier this year during a visit to Beijing recognized China’s right to undertake "anti-terrorism" and "de-extremism" measures and Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan and Indonesian president Joko Widodo who professed to be unaware of the situation in Xinjiang. Trying to balance Turkey’s position as a safe haven for Turkic Muslims while maintaining close ties to China, Turkey last month said it had granted 146,000 residence permits to members of various Turkic communities, including an estimated 35,000 Uyghurs. “You don’t need to worry. I want you to know that we will use every chance in favour of you to provide that you will reach tomorrow as citizens of the Republic of Turkey, brotherly and sisterly,” interior minister Suleyman Soylu told a breaking of the Ramadan fast dinner. China’s past attempts to convince foreign diplomats even if they remained publicly silent and journalists of its version of events by taking them on guided tours of Xinjiang have largely produced moderate results at best. How Turkey handles the visit to Xinjiang is likely to resonate in major parts of the Islamic world. The delegation’s conclusion is likely to come as pressure plays out on the Sudanese military by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to revisit several Turkish contracts concluded with ousted president Omar al-Bashir, including the development of Khartoum airport and a port on Suakin Island. The port project would put Turkey too close for comfort to the Saudi Red Sea coast and challenge the UAE’s effort to dominate East African ports. Turkish criticism of China could also complicate efforts by Central Asian governments to ignore Xinjiang even if ethnic Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, Uzbeks and other Central Asians are among the detainees in the Chinese region, sparking anti-Chinese sentiment in former Soviet republics. Kyrgyz President Sooronbai Jeenbekov, meeting Chinese president Xi Jinping a day before leaders of the eight Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) countries gathered in Bishkek last month, described the situation in Xinjiang as an “internal (Chinese) matter.” The SCO groups Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, and Pakistan. A critical Turkish stance could further aggravate problems, at least in Kyrgyzstan, stemming from China’s promotion of a non-competitive Xinjiang-based company competing for a major infrastructure project. China’s insistence that TBEA, a little-known contractor with at best modest experience in building and repairing power stations, be granted a $386 million contract to refurbish Bishkek’s ageing plant has landed former Kyrgyz prime minister Sapar Isakov in court on corruption charges. TBEA was awarded the contract despite lower bids by a competing Chinese company and a Russian company with an established track record. It was not clear to what degree the push for TBEA was driven by an effort to line the pockets of corrupt officials and/or geopolitical objectives. China sees Central Asia and Pakistan as key drivers of economic development in Xinjiang. Said Yang Shu, head of the Institute for Central Asia Studies at Lanzhou University in north-western China, commenting on Chinese strategy: “For countries that have good relations with China and have similar problems, it is easy for both to reach consensus on the Xinjiang issue. For other countries, explanations will not have much effect… But overall, it’s better to do it than not to do it.” After vacillating between silence and criticism, the Turkish visit is likely to determine where Turkey really stands. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

For Turkey, Xinjiang visit amounts to a risky gamble

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-tear-gas-gay-pride-paraders-in-istanbul-231958">Istanbul pride parade</a>, banned for the fifth year in a row.

Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organisers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said.

The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organisers, Istanbul <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-thousands-march-across-europe-for-gay-pride-233705">LGBT+ Pride Week</a>.

Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said.

There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers.

There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas.

Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued.

"It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement.

Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month.

Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003.&nbsp;

The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region.

Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the period of the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse.

But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row.

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row. Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organisers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said. The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organisers, Istanbul LGBT+ Pride Week. Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said. There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers. There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas. Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued. "It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement. Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month. Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003. The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region. Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the period of the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse. But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

Police tear gas gay pride paraders in Istanbul

Turkish police began nationwide raids Tuesday aimed at detaining over 200 military personnel suspected of ties to the group blamed for a 2016 coup attempt, officials and state media reported, in an ongoing crackdown that has seen thousands jailed.

The Istanbul public prosecutor said it issued arrest warrants for 176 active duty military personnel, including a colonel, five majors and 100 lieutenants from the different armed forces over alleged links to Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen's movement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/for-turkey-xinjiang-visit-amounts-to-a-risky-gamble-234168">Turkey</a> says US-based Gulen ordered the failed overthrow of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-says-car-explosion-in-turkey-kills-three-may-be-terrorism-related-233323">President Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> but he vehemently denies the charges.

The Izmir public prosecutor in the Aegean region issued arrest warrants for 35 suspects including 20 soldiers on active duty and 10 civilians, state news agency Anadolu said.

The agency said eight suspects had been detained already.

In the northwestern province of Kocaeli, the prosecutor sought the arrest of 17 suspects including nine current and former soldiers across seven cities, Anadolu reported.

Authorities have detained tens of thousands of individuals since 2016, and the raids show no sign of slowing with almost daily reports of arrest warrants issued despite criticism from Western allies and rights defenders.

Critics say the government is using the purge to crackdown on dissent but Turkish officials stress the raids are necessary to eradicate Gulen's influence in state bodies.

Turkish police began nationwide raids Tuesday aimed at detaining over 200 military personnel suspected of ties to the group blamed for a 2016 coup attempt, officials and state media reported, in an ongoing crackdown that has seen thousands jailed.

Turkish police began nationwide raids Tuesday aimed at detaining over 200 military personnel suspected of ties to the group blamed for a 2016 coup attempt, officials and state media reported, in an ongoing crackdown that has seen thousands jailed. The Istanbul public prosecutor said it issued arrest warrants for 176 active duty military personnel, including a colonel, five majors and 100 lieutenants from the different armed forces over alleged links to Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen's movement. Turkey says US-based Gulen ordered the failed overthrow of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan but he vehemently denies the charges. The Izmir public prosecutor in the Aegean region issued arrest warrants for 35 suspects including 20 soldiers on active duty and 10 civilians, state news agency Anadolu said. The agency said eight suspects had been detained already. In the northwestern province of Kocaeli, the prosecutor sought the arrest of 17 suspects including nine current and former soldiers across seven cities, Anadolu reported. Authorities have detained tens of thousands of individuals since 2016, and the raids show no sign of slowing with almost daily reports of arrest warrants issued despite criticism from Western allies and rights defenders. Critics say the government is using the purge to crackdown on dissent but Turkish officials stress the raids are necessary to eradicate Gulen's influence in state bodies.

Turkey issues warrants for over 200 soldiers over alleged coup links

&nbsp;Global stocks were in a muted mood on Monday after strong US job gains tempered expectations the Federal Reserve will deliver a large rate cut, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deutsche-bank-says-to-slash-18000-jobs-by-2022-233897">Deutsche Bank </a>shares turned negative as it launched a major restructuring.

The sentiment was also dampened by US investment bank Morgan Stanley's decision to reduce its exposure to global equities due to misgivings about the ability of policy easing to offset weaker economic data.

In Turkey, the lira, stocks and government dollar bonds weakened after President Tayyip Erdogan dismissed the central bank governor, a move that fuelled worries about monetary policy independence.

After earlier touching their highest level since early May, Deutsche Bank shares slumped 3.3% as investor enthusiasm fizzled out for the bank's move to cut 18,000 jobs around the world as part of a restructuring plan that will cost 7.4 billion euros.

European stocks moved little, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index adding 0.04%.

Among top movers on the STOXX 600 were TGS Nopec, up 6.7% on a well-received earnings update.

US futures pointed to a lower opening for Wall Street, with E-Minis for the S&amp;P500 at -0.2%.

In Asia, there was a wide sell-off in stocks, with MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan losing 1.4% and China's blue-chip CSI300 index down 2.32%, its biggest daily loss since May 17.

"We are lowering our exposure to global equities to the range we consider 'underweight'," Morgan Stanley's London-based strategist Andrew Sheets said in a note. The previous range was "neutral".

Expensive valuations and pressure on earnings were among the reasons for the downgrade, Sheets said, while the bank increased its exposure to emerging markets sovereign credit and safe haven <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-shares-fall-as-bets-off-on-sharp-us-rate-cuts-233889">Japanese government bonds</a>.

Since the start of the year, global equities have generally been bolstered by expectations that central banks will keep interesting rates at or near record lows to boost economic growth.

Those expectations were tempered by a US labour report on Friday that showed nonfarm payrolls jumped 224,000 in June, beating forecasts for 160,000, in a sign the world's largest economy still had some fire.

Given the strength shown in that data, investors now expect US Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell to go slow on rate cuts this year.

"The re-adjustment in expectations did push the dollar higher and had a negative effect on Asia but Europe has been supported by investors saying 'whatever the Fed does, the ECB (European Central Bank) will still cut'," said Andrew Milligan, head of global strategy at Aberdeen Standard Investments.

Trading is expected to be subdued ahead of Powell's semi-annual testimony to the US Congress on Wednesday, which will provide further clues on the near-term outlook for monetary policy.

The Greek stock index rallied at the open to hit a new February 2015 high before erasing gains and slipping 1.3% as traders booked profits after Greece's opposition conservatives returned to power with a landslide victory in snap elections on Sunday.

Greek 10-year bond yields fell by 14 basis points in early trade to hit new all-time lows of 2.016%, reversing the 12 basis point yield rise on Friday.

Currencies and geopolitics

There was some positive news on the protracted China-US trade war, with White House Economic adviser Larry Kudlow confirming that top representatives from the United States and China will meet in the coming week for trade talks.

"Whether the negotiators can find a solution to the difficult structural issues that remain between the two sides is another matter, and Kudlow cautioned there was 'no timeline' to reach an agreement," National Australia Bank strategist Rodrigo Catril said.

In currency markets, the action was in the Turkish lira which weakened as much as 2% against the dollar after Turkey's central bank governor Murat Cetinkaya, whose four-year term was due to run until 2020, was replaced by his deputy Murat Uysal.

Erdogan sacked Cetinkaya for refusing the government's repeated demands for rate cuts, laying bare differences between them over the timing of interest rate cuts to revive the recession-hit economy.

The dollar index stood at 97.233, down marginally on the day but near the 3-week high of 97.443 hits on Friday.

The euro, which dropped to $1.1208 on Friday, traded at $1.1225, unchanged on the day.

After hitting a six-month low to the dollar on Friday as a result of poor economic data and a rise in expectations that the Bank of England will cut interest rates, the British pound edged down to $1.2530.

Geopolitics may be in focus this week following news on Sunday that Iran will boost its uranium enrichment, in breach of a cap set by a landmark 2015 nuclear deal.

"So far US.-Iran tensions have not had a material impact on markets, but if tensions escalate it could be a different story," said NAB's Catril.

In commodity markets, oil prices edged down with Brent crude futures down 0.09% to $64.18. USA West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was 0.12% down at $57.44 a barrel.

Spot gold gained 0.4% to $1,404.48 an ounce.

Global stocks were in a muted mood on Monday after strong US job gains tempered expectations the Federal Reserve will deliver a large rate cut, while Deutsche Bank shares turned negative as it launched a major restructuring.

Global stocks were in a muted mood on Monday after strong US job gains tempered expectations the Federal Reserve will deliver a large rate cut, while Deutsche Bank shares turned negative as it launched a major restructuring. The sentiment was also dampened by US investment bank Morgan Stanley's decision to reduce its exposure to global equities due to misgivings about the ability of policy easing to offset weaker economic data. In Turkey, the lira, stocks and government dollar bonds weakened after President Tayyip Erdogan dismissed the central bank governor, a move that fuelled worries about monetary policy independence. After earlier touching their highest level since early May, Deutsche Bank shares slumped 3.3% as investor enthusiasm fizzled out for the bank's move to cut 18,000 jobs around the world as part of a restructuring plan that will cost 7.4 billion euros. European stocks moved little, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index adding 0.04%. Among top movers on the STOXX 600 were TGS Nopec, up 6.7% on a well-received earnings update. US futures pointed to a lower opening for Wall Street, with E-Minis for the S&P500 at -0.2%. In Asia, there was a wide sell-off in stocks, with MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan losing 1.4% and China's blue-chip CSI300 index down 2.32%, its biggest daily loss since May 17. "We are lowering our exposure to global equities to the range we consider 'underweight'," Morgan Stanley's London-based strategist Andrew Sheets said in a note. The previous range was "neutral". Expensive valuations and pressure on earnings were among the reasons for the downgrade, Sheets said, while the bank increased its exposure to emerging markets sovereign credit and safe haven Japanese government bonds. Since the start of the year, global equities have generally been bolstered by expectations that central banks will keep interesting rates at or near record lows to boost economic growth. Those expectations were tempered by a US labour report on Friday that showed nonfarm payrolls jumped 224,000 in June, beating forecasts for 160,000, in a sign the world's largest economy still had some fire. Given the strength shown in that data, investors now expect US Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell to go slow on rate cuts this year. "The re-adjustment in expectations did push the dollar higher and had a negative effect on Asia but Europe has been supported by investors saying 'whatever the Fed does, the ECB (European Central Bank) will still cut'," said Andrew Milligan, head of global strategy at Aberdeen Standard Investments. Trading is expected to be subdued ahead of Powell's semi-annual testimony to the US Congress on Wednesday, which will provide further clues on the near-term outlook for monetary policy. The Greek stock index rallied at the open to hit a new February 2015 high before erasing gains and slipping 1.3% as traders booked profits after Greece's opposition conservatives returned to power with a landslide victory in snap elections on Sunday. Greek 10-year bond yields fell by 14 basis points in early trade to hit new all-time lows of 2.016%, reversing the 12 basis point yield rise on Friday. Currencies and geopolitics There was some positive news on the protracted China-US trade war, with White House Economic adviser Larry Kudlow confirming that top representatives from the United States and China will meet in the coming week for trade talks. "Whether the negotiators can find a solution to the difficult structural issues that remain between the two sides is another matter, and Kudlow cautioned there was 'no timeline' to reach an agreement," National Australia Bank strategist Rodrigo Catril said. In currency markets, the action was in the Turkish lira which weakened as much as 2% against the dollar after Turkey's central bank governor Murat Cetinkaya, whose four-year term was due to run until 2020, was replaced by his deputy Murat Uysal. Erdogan sacked Cetinkaya for refusing the government's repeated demands for rate cuts, laying bare differences between them over the timing of interest rate cuts to revive the recession-hit economy. The dollar index stood at 97.233, down marginally on the day but near the 3-week high of 97.443 hits on Friday. The euro, which dropped to $1.1208 on Friday, traded at $1.1225, unchanged on the day. After hitting a six-month low to the dollar on Friday as a result of poor economic data and a rise in expectations that the Bank of England will cut interest rates, the British pound edged down to $1.2530. Geopolitics may be in focus this week following news on Sunday that Iran will boost its uranium enrichment, in breach of a cap set by a landmark 2015 nuclear deal. "So far US.-Iran tensions have not had a material impact on markets, but if tensions escalate it could be a different story," said NAB's Catril. In commodity markets, oil prices edged down with Brent crude futures down 0.09% to $64.18. USA West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was 0.12% down at $57.44 a barrel. Spot gold gained 0.4% to $1,404.48 an ounce.

Global shares muted as prospect of sharp United States rate cut fades

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-says-car-explosion-in-turkey-kills-three-may-be-terrorism-related-233323">Turkey on Saturday</a> fired its central bank governor and replaced him with the bank's deputy governor, a presidential decree published on the official gazette showed.

Murat Cetinkaya, who had been serving as the governor since April 2016, was removed from the role and was replaced by his deputy Murat Uysal, the order showed.

No official reason was given for the sacking, but markets have speculated over recent weeks that Cetinkaya may be pushed out by the government because of his reluctance to cut rates.

The central bank has faced pressure in the past from President Tayyip Erdogan to lower interest rates to boost economic growth.

Two government sources told Reuters that differences between the government and the governor over the conduct of monetary policy have deepened in the past few months.

"The difference of opinions between the governor and the ministers in charge of the economy has deepened in the recent period," said one of the sources.

"The President and the finance minister demanded his resignation, but Cetinkaya reminded of the bank's independence and declined to resign," the other source said.

In a statement on Saturday, the central bank said it will continue to operate independently and that the new governor will focus on maintaining price stability as its key goal.

Data earlier in the week showed Turkey's consumer inflation slowed to its lowest level in a year in June, mainly due to a high base effect from the prior year and a drop in food prices, potentially paving the way for the country's first interest rate cut since last year's currency crisis.

Analysts expect the central bank could ease monetary policy at a July 25 meeting if the lira is not hit this month by threatened US sanctions over Turkey's purchase of a Russian missile defence system.

Turkey on Saturday fired its central bank governor and replaced him with the bank's deputy governor, a presidential decree published on the official gazette showed.

Turkey on Saturday fired its central bank governor and replaced him with the bank's deputy governor, a presidential decree published on the official gazette showed. Murat Cetinkaya, who had been serving as the governor since April 2016, was removed from the role and was replaced by his deputy Murat Uysal, the order showed. No official reason was given for the sacking, but markets have speculated over recent weeks that Cetinkaya may be pushed out by the government because of his reluctance to cut rates. The central bank has faced pressure in the past from President Tayyip Erdogan to lower interest rates to boost economic growth. Two government sources told Reuters that differences between the government and the governor over the conduct of monetary policy have deepened in the past few months. "The difference of opinions between the governor and the ministers in charge of the economy has deepened in the recent period," said one of the sources. "The President and the finance minister demanded his resignation, but Cetinkaya reminded of the bank's independence and declined to resign," the other source said. In a statement on Saturday, the central bank said it will continue to operate independently and that the new governor will focus on maintaining price stability as its key goal. Data earlier in the week showed Turkey's consumer inflation slowed to its lowest level in a year in June, mainly due to a high base effect from the prior year and a drop in food prices, potentially paving the way for the country's first interest rate cut since last year's currency crisis. Analysts expect the central bank could ease monetary policy at a July 25 meeting if the lira is not hit this month by threatened US sanctions over Turkey's purchase of a Russian missile defence system.

Turkey fires central bank governor as policy differences deepen

A car exploded in southeast Turkey near the border with Syria on Friday, killing three Syrian people, President <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/its-a-problem-trump-tells-erdogan-on-russia-s-400-missile-deal-231388&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjV5Z6w6J3jAhWjW3wKHWprBhkQFjAEegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-9MZlIbB1e7kEabf-OZ3r">Tayyip Erdogan</a> said, adding that initial findings showed the blast may be terrorism-related.

The explosion took place in the town of Reyhanli, where officials are carrying out inspections to determine its cause, Erdogan said. He said it was clear the explosion was the result of a bomb inside the vehicle detonating.

Security sources said one of the Syrian passengers in the car was a suicide bomber whose explosive device detonated early, causing the blast.

The sources said the passengers in the car were being investigated for potential links to Islamic State and added that one person was also wounded in the blast.

Reyhanli is home to thousands of Syrian refugees. Following a series of bombings in the region in 2013, Turkey tightened controls along its 900-km (560-mile) border with Syria.

Twin car bombs ripped through the town, which is in Hatay province, on May 11, 2013, killing 52 people. At the time, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/istanbul-mayor-says-win-marks-new-beginning-for-turkey-229840&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjV5Z6w6J3jAhWjW3wKHWprBhkQFjAJegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1UzZAHpHZy1J6nWAOaxicF">Turkey </a>accused a group loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad of carrying out the attacks. Damascus denied any involvement.

In May, Turkey handed down 53 life sentences without parole to Yusuf Nazik, the man authorities say planned the 2013 bomb attack.

Turkey has been one of the biggest supporters of the rebels fighting Syrian government forces during the eight-year conflict in Syria. It hosts some 3.5 million Syrian refugees.

A car exploded in southeast Turkey near the border with Syria on Friday, killing three Syrian people, President Tayyip Erdogan said, adding that initial findings showed the blast may be terrorism-related.

A car exploded in southeast Turkey near the border with Syria on Friday, killing three Syrian people, President Tayyip Erdogan said, adding that initial findings showed the blast may be terrorism-related. The explosion took place in the town of Reyhanli, where officials are carrying out inspections to determine its cause, Erdogan said. He said it was clear the explosion was the result of a bomb inside the vehicle detonating. Security sources said one of the Syrian passengers in the car was a suicide bomber whose explosive device detonated early, causing the blast. The sources said the passengers in the car were being investigated for potential links to Islamic State and added that one person was also wounded in the blast. Reyhanli is home to thousands of Syrian refugees. Following a series of bombings in the region in 2013, Turkey tightened controls along its 900-km (560-mile) border with Syria. Twin car bombs ripped through the town, which is in Hatay province, on May 11, 2013, killing 52 people. At the time, Turkey accused a group loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad of carrying out the attacks. Damascus denied any involvement. In May, Turkey handed down 53 life sentences without parole to Yusuf Nazik, the man authorities say planned the 2013 bomb attack. Turkey has been one of the biggest supporters of the rebels fighting Syrian government forces during the eight-year conflict in Syria. It hosts some 3.5 million Syrian refugees.

Tayyip Erdogan says car explosion in Turkey kills three, may be terrorism-related

Trump and Erdogan held a bilateral at the G20 summit. Turkish President says S-400 to be delivered in 10 days. Washington earlier warned Turkey of sanctions. Erdogan is confident about resolving dispute with U.S. Watch this video to know more.

Turkish President: S-400 to be delivered within 10 days

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said the first delivery of the Russian S-400 missile defence system would take place within 10 days, broadcaster NTV reported on Sunday, a day after he said there would be no US sanctions over the deal.

Turkey and the United States, NATO allies, have been at odds over Ankara's decision to purchase the S-400s, with Washington warning of US sanctions if the delivery took place. Turkey has dismissed the warnings, saying it would not back down.

The United States says the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-says-no-setback-in-missile-deal-with-russia-as-trump-voices-sympathy-231492">S-400s will compromise its Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 fighter jets</a>, of which Turkey is a producer and buyer. Washington has also formally started the process of expelling Turkey from the F-35 programme, halting the training of Turkish pilots in the United States.

But on Saturday, Erdogan said US President Donald Trump had told him there would be no sanctions over the Russian deal, after Trump said Turkey had been treated unfairly over the move.

The White House said Trump "expressed concern" over the S-400 deal and "encouraged Turkey to work with the United States on defence cooperation in a way that strengthens the NATO alliance."

Speaking to reporters after the G20 summit in Japan, where he held bilateral talks with Trump, Erdogan said he believed the dispute over the S-400s would be overcome "without a problem" and added that his US counterpart supported Turkey in the dispute.

"In our phone calls, when we come together bilaterally, Mr Trump has not said so far: 'We will impose these sanctions.' On the S-400s, he said to me: 'You are right.' We carried this issue to a very advanced level," Erdogan said, according to NTV.

"At this advanced level, Trump said: 'This is injustice'. This is very important. I believe that we will overcome this process without any problems," Erdogan added.

He said the two leaders had agreed to delegate officials to follow the issue. He also said Turkish and US&nbsp;foreign and defence ministers would "open the doors" to resolving the matter.

In an effort to sway Turkey, the United States has offered to supply it with Raytheon Co Patriot missiles.

Erdogan was quoted by NTV as saying: "One S-400 is worth three Patriots. If the conditions are even equal to the S-400 (deal), we would buy Patriots, but if they are not, then we have to think of our interests,"

Erdogan also said that he hoped the issue of Turkish lender Halkbank, which faces US&nbsp;Treasury sanctions over an Iran sanctions-busting case that has further strained ties between the allies, would be resolved soon, NTV said.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said the first delivery of the Russian S-400 missile defence system would take place within 10 days, broadcaster NTV reported on Sunday, a day after he said there would be no US sanctions over the deal.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said the first delivery of the Russian S-400 missile defence system would take place within 10 days, broadcaster NTV reported on Sunday, a day after he said there would be no US sanctions over the deal. Turkey and the United States, NATO allies, have been at odds over Ankara's decision to purchase the S-400s, with Washington warning of US sanctions if the delivery took place. Turkey has dismissed the warnings, saying it would not back down. The United States says the S-400s will compromise its Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 fighter jets, of which Turkey is a producer and buyer. Washington has also formally started the process of expelling Turkey from the F-35 programme, halting the training of Turkish pilots in the United States. But on Saturday, Erdogan said US President Donald Trump had told him there would be no sanctions over the Russian deal, after Trump said Turkey had been treated unfairly over the move. The White House said Trump "expressed concern" over the S-400 deal and "encouraged Turkey to work with the United States on defence cooperation in a way that strengthens the NATO alliance." Speaking to reporters after the G20 summit in Japan, where he held bilateral talks with Trump, Erdogan said he believed the dispute over the S-400s would be overcome "without a problem" and added that his US counterpart supported Turkey in the dispute. "In our phone calls, when we come together bilaterally, Mr Trump has not said so far: 'We will impose these sanctions.' On the S-400s, he said to me: 'You are right.' We carried this issue to a very advanced level," Erdogan said, according to NTV. "At this advanced level, Trump said: 'This is injustice'. This is very important. I believe that we will overcome this process without any problems," Erdogan added. He said the two leaders had agreed to delegate officials to follow the issue. He also said Turkish and US foreign and defence ministers would "open the doors" to resolving the matter. In an effort to sway Turkey, the United States has offered to supply it with Raytheon Co Patriot missiles. Erdogan was quoted by NTV as saying: "One S-400 is worth three Patriots. If the conditions are even equal to the S-400 (deal), we would buy Patriots, but if they are not, then we have to think of our interests," Erdogan also said that he hoped the issue of Turkish lender Halkbank, which faces US Treasury sanctions over an Iran sanctions-busting case that has further strained ties between the allies, would be resolved soon, NTV said.

First delivery of Russian S-400 missile defence system within 10 days: Erdogan

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row.

Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organizers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said.

The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organizers, Istanbul <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/cuban-lgbt-activists-plan-alternate-parade-in-defiance-of-government-217929">LGBT+ Pride Week.</a>

Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said.

There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers.

There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas.

Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued.

"It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement.

Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month.

Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003.&nbsp;

The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region.

Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse.

But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row. Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organizers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said. The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organizers, Istanbul LGBT+ Pride Week. Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said. There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers. There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas. Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued. "It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement. Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month. Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003. The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region. Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse. But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

PM Modi meet the President of Chile, Sebastian Pinera. He also meets the Prime Minister of Singapore. PM Modi highlights their Mudra Scheme, Education scheme at G20. Watch this video to know more.

G20 Summit Day 2: Big Bilateral between India & Turkey

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-will-do-all-it-can-to-improve-ties-with-us-231474">Moscow will do all it can to improve ties with US, says Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>

Russia's president&nbsp;said on Saturday that Moscow would do all it could to improve relations with the United States that have been strained by years of diplomatic conflicts over Ukraine and accusations of Russian meddling in US elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mass-resignations-of-congress-leaders-part-of-scripted-drama-bjps-tom-vadakkan-231500">Mass resignations of Congress leaders part of 'scripted drama': BJP's Tom Vadakkan</a>

BJP member Tom Vadakkan on Saturday claimed the&nbsp;recent mass resignations in the Congress&nbsp;as a "scripted drama", following Rahul Gandhi's refusal to withdraw his resignation as the party president.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-kill-26-pro-government-militia-members-in-afghanistan-231459">Taliban kill 26 pro-government militia members in Afghanistan</a>

Taliban militants killed at least 26 members of a pro-government militia in north Afghanistan on Saturday, government officials said, the same day the militants and US government officials are due to start a new round of peace talks in Qatar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-says-no-setback-in-missile-deal-with-russia-as-trump-voices-sympathy-231492">Erdogan says no setback in missile deal with Russia as Trump voices sympathy</a>

Turkey said on Saturday there was no setback in its plan to buy&nbsp;Russian S-400 missile defence systems, despite US opposition, and President Donald Trump expressed understanding for the decision but did not rule out sanctions in response.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-declares-emergency-in-violence-plagued-rural-alaska-231512">Trump administration declares emergency in violence-plagued rural Alaska</a>

US Attorney General William Barr on Friday declared a public-safety emergency in rural Alaska and pledged $10.5 million in federal funds to combat some of the nation`s worst rates of sexual assault, child abuse and other violent crimes.

Moscow will do all it can to improve ties with US, says Russian President Vladimir Putin Russia's president said on Saturday that Moscow would do all it could to improve relations with the United States that have been strained by years of diplomatic conflicts over Ukraine and accusations of Russian meddling in US elections.

Moscow will do all it can to improve ties with US, says Russian President Vladimir Putin Russia's president said on Saturday that Moscow would do all it could to improve relations with the United States that have been strained by years of diplomatic conflicts over Ukraine and accusations of Russian meddling in US elections. Mass resignations of Congress leaders part of 'scripted drama': BJP's Tom Vadakkan BJP member Tom Vadakkan on Saturday claimed the recent mass resignations in the Congress as a "scripted drama", following Rahul Gandhi's refusal to withdraw his resignation as the party president. Taliban kill 26 pro-government militia members in Afghanistan Taliban militants killed at least 26 members of a pro-government militia in north Afghanistan on Saturday, government officials said, the same day the militants and US government officials are due to start a new round of peace talks in Qatar. Erdogan says no setback in missile deal with Russia as Trump voices sympathy Turkey said on Saturday there was no setback in its plan to buy Russian S-400 missile defence systems, despite US opposition, and President Donald Trump expressed understanding for the decision but did not rule out sanctions in response. Trump administration declares emergency in violence-plagued rural Alaska US Attorney General William Barr on Friday declared a public-safety emergency in rural Alaska and pledged $10.5 million in federal funds to combat some of the nation`s worst rates of sexual assault, child abuse and other violent crimes.

Acting US Defense Secretary Mark Esper warned his Turkish counterpart on Wednesday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-deliver-first-s-400-missile-to-turkey-in-july-reports-230635">Ankara's purchase of Russia's S-400 air defence system</a> would hurt the country's economy due to US sanctions, a senior US official said.

The US further said that the deal would end Turkey's role in the F-35 fighter jet program.

"The secretary was very firm, once again, that Turkey will not have both the S-400 and the F-35. And if they accept the S-400 they should accept ramifications not only to the F-35 program but also to their economic situation," said the senior US defence official, speaking on condition of anonymity, after the US-Turkey meeting on the sidelines of NATO gathering in Brussels.

Russian news agencies on Wednesday cited the head of country's state arms exporter Rosoboronexport saying that Moscow will make the first delivery of the S-400 missile systems to Turkey in July.

"We are making first delivery in July as part of out plans," Alexander Mikheev is quoted as saying by RIA news agency.

The plans of Turkey, a NATO member, have irked Washington, which threatened with sanctions against Ankara if it goes ahead with the purchase.

(With inputs from Reuters)

&nbsp;

Acting US Defense Secretary Mark Esper warned his Turkish counterpart on Wednesday that Ankara's purchase of Russia's S-400 air defence system would hurt the country's economy due to US sanctions, a senior US official said.

Acting US Defense Secretary Mark Esper warned his Turkish counterpart on Wednesday that Ankara's purchase of Russia's S-400 air defence system would hurt the country's economy due to US sanctions, a senior US official said. The US further said that the deal would end Turkey's role in the F-35 fighter jet program. "The secretary was very firm, once again, that Turkey will not have both the S-400 and the F-35. And if they accept the S-400 they should accept ramifications not only to the F-35 program but also to their economic situation," said the senior US defence official, speaking on condition of anonymity, after the US-Turkey meeting on the sidelines of NATO gathering in Brussels. Russian news agencies on Wednesday cited the head of country's state arms exporter Rosoboronexport saying that Moscow will make the first delivery of the S-400 missile systems to Turkey in July. "We are making first delivery in July as part of out plans," Alexander Mikheev is quoted as saying by RIA news agency. The plans of Turkey, a NATO member, have irked Washington, which threatened with sanctions against Ankara if it goes ahead with the purchase. (With inputs from Reuters)

US warns Turkey of sanctions impact if it buys Russian defenses

Russia will make first delivery of the S-400 missile systems to Turkey in July, Russian news agencies cited the head of Russian state arms exporter Rosoboronexport saying on Wednesday, in accordance with the earlier-stated plans.

"We are making first delivery in July as part of out plans," Alexander Mikheev is quoted as saying by RIA news agency.

The plans of Turkey, a NATO member, have irked Washington, which threatened with sanctions against Ankara if it goes ahead with the purchase.

Russia will make first delivery of the S-400 missile systems to Turkey in July, Russian news agencies cited the head of Russian state arms exporter Rosoboronexport saying on Wednesday, in accordance with the earlier-stated plans.

Russia will make first delivery of the S-400 missile systems to Turkey in July, Russian news agencies cited the head of Russian state arms exporter Rosoboronexport saying on Wednesday, in accordance with the earlier-stated plans. "We are making first delivery in July as part of out plans," Alexander Mikheev is quoted as saying by RIA news agency. The plans of Turkey, a NATO member, have irked Washington, which threatened with sanctions against Ankara if it goes ahead with the purchase.

Russia to deliver first S-400 missile to Turkey in July: Reports

A Turkish court on Tuesday lifted the house arrest of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-consulate-employee-in-turkey-charged-with-espionage-194446">US consulate</a> staffer charged with terrorism offences, just days before President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggis-killers-will-pay-the-price-says-turkish-president-228875">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> is due to meet US counterpart Donald Trump, an embassy official told AFP.

Mete Canturk is one of three consulate staffers arrested for links to a group accused of an attempted coup in 2016.&nbsp;

Canturk, a Turkish citizen, still faces trial and is barred from leaving the country, with his next hearing set for October 2.&nbsp;

US charge d'affaires Jeffrey Hovenier welcomed the decision to release him from house arrest.

"We continue to see no evidence to support the charges brought against him and we reiterate our call for this process as well as other processes involving our unjustly detained staff to be resolved quickly, transparently and fairly," said Hovenier.

Relations between Ankara and Washington have been strained over several issues, including Turkey's purchase of a Russian missile defence system and US support for a Kurdish militia in Syria.

Erdogan is due to meet Trump this week on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan.&nbsp;

A Turkish-American former NASA scientist, Serkan Golge, detained in Turkey for nearly three years on similar terrorism charges, was released in May.&nbsp;

Another Istanbul consulate staffer, Metin Topuz, who also faces espionage charges, is due back in court this week.

A third staffer, Hamza Ulucay, from the Adana consulate, has already been sentenced to 4.5 years for "aiding a terror organisation".

They are suspected of links to US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen, whom Ankara blames for orchestrating the failed coup.

A Turkish court on Tuesday lifted the house arrest of a US consulate staffer charged with terrorism offences, just days before President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is due to meet US counterpart Donald Trump, an embassy official told AFP.

A Turkish court on Tuesday lifted the house arrest of a US consulate staffer charged with terrorism offences, just days before President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is due to meet US counterpart Donald Trump, an embassy official told AFP. Mete Canturk is one of three consulate staffers arrested for links to a group accused of an attempted coup in 2016. Canturk, a Turkish citizen, still faces trial and is barred from leaving the country, with his next hearing set for October 2. US charge d'affaires Jeffrey Hovenier welcomed the decision to release him from house arrest. "We continue to see no evidence to support the charges brought against him and we reiterate our call for this process as well as other processes involving our unjustly detained staff to be resolved quickly, transparently and fairly," said Hovenier. Relations between Ankara and Washington have been strained over several issues, including Turkey's purchase of a Russian missile defence system and US support for a Kurdish militia in Syria. Erdogan is due to meet Trump this week on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan. A Turkish-American former NASA scientist, Serkan Golge, detained in Turkey for nearly three years on similar terrorism charges, was released in May. Another Istanbul consulate staffer, Metin Topuz, who also faces espionage charges, is due back in court this week. A third staffer, Hamza Ulucay, from the Adana consulate, has already been sentenced to 4.5 years for "aiding a terror organisation". They are suspected of links to US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen, whom Ankara blames for orchestrating the failed coup.

Turkey court lifts house arrest on United States consulate staffer

Turkey's opposition has dealt President Tayyip Erdogan a stinging blow by winning control of Istanbul in a re-run mayoral election, breaking his aura of invincibility and delivering a message from voters unhappy over his policies.

Ekrem Imamoglu of the Republican People's Party (CHP) secured 54.21% of votes, according to state-owned Anadolu news agency - a far wider victory margin than his narrow win three months ago.

The previous result was annulled after protests from Erdogan's Islamist-rooted AK Party, which said there had been widespread voting irregularities.&nbsp;

The decision to re-run the vote was criticised by Western allies and caused an uproar among domestic opponents who said Turkey's democracy was under threat.

On Sunday, tens of thousands of Imamoglu supporters celebrated in the streets of Istanbul after the former businessman triumphed over Erdogan's handpicked candidate by almost 800,000 votes.

"In this city today, you have fixed democracy. Thank you Istanbul," Imamoglu told supporters who made heart signs with their hands, in an expression of the inclusive election rhetoric that has been the hallmark of his campaigning.

"We came to embrace everyone," Imamoglu said. "We will build democracy in this city, we will build justice. In this beautiful city, I promise, we will build the future."

The High Electoral Board has yet to announce the formal results, but Erdogan has already congratulated Imamoglu for his victory and Imamoglu's rival, Binali Yildirim, of the ruling AK Party, wished him luck as mayor barely two hours after polls closed.

Waning Support

Erdogan has ruled Turkey since 2003, first as prime minister and then as president, becoming the country's most dominant politician since its founder, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, nearly a century ago.

His AK Party has strong support among pious and conservative Turks and its stewardship of Turkey's economy through a decade and a half of construction-fuelled growth helped Erdogan win more than a dozen national and local elections.

But the economic recession and a financial crisis have eroded that support and Erdogan's ever-tighter control over government has alarmed some voters.

Turkey's lira tumbled after the decision to annul the March vote and is down 8% this year in part on election jitters. It firmed to 5.72 overnight from Friday's close of 5.8140 but eased back to 5.7750 by 0500 GMT.

Imamoglu won support even in the traditionally pious Istanbul districts, once known as AK Party strongholds, ending the 25-year-long Islamist rule in the country's largest city.

"This re-run (election) was one to put an end to the dictatorship," said Gulcan Demirkaya, a 48-year-old housewife in Istanbul's AKP-leaning Kagithane district. "God willing, I would like to see him as the president in five years' time. The one-man rule should come to an end."

The results are likely to trigger a new chapter in Turkish politics, with the country's top three cities now held by the opposition, and could trigger cracks within Erdogan's AK Party, while bringing the economic troubles more to the centre.

"This is definitely going to have an impact on the future of Turkish politics given the margin of victory. It's an alarming sign for the AKP establishment," said Sinan Ulgen, visiting scholar at Carnegie Europe in Brussels and former Turkish diplomat.

Analysts say the loss could set off a Cabinet reshuffle in Ankara and adjustments to foreign policy. It could even trigger a national election earlier than 2023 as scheduled, although the leader of the AKP's nationalist ally played down that prospect.

"Turkey should now return to its real agenda, the election process should close," MHP party leader Devlet Bahceli said. "Talking of an early election would be among the worst things that can be done to our country."

The uncertainty over the fate of Istanbul and potential delays in broader economic reforms have kept financial markets on edge. Threats of sanctions by the United States if Erdogan goes ahead with plans to install Russian missile defences have also weighed on the markets.

Turkey's opposition has dealt President Tayyip Erdogan a stinging blow by winning control of Istanbul in a re-run mayoral election, breaking his aura of invincibility and delivering a message from voters unhappy over his policies.

Turkey's opposition has dealt President Tayyip Erdogan a stinging blow by winning control of Istanbul in a re-run mayoral election, breaking his aura of invincibility and delivering a message from voters unhappy over his policies. Ekrem Imamoglu of the Republican People's Party (CHP) secured 54.21% of votes, according to state-owned Anadolu news agency - a far wider victory margin than his narrow win three months ago. The previous result was annulled after protests from Erdogan's Islamist-rooted AK Party, which said there had been widespread voting irregularities. The decision to re-run the vote was criticised by Western allies and caused an uproar among domestic opponents who said Turkey's democracy was under threat. On Sunday, tens of thousands of Imamoglu supporters celebrated in the streets of Istanbul after the former businessman triumphed over Erdogan's handpicked candidate by almost 800,000 votes. "In this city today, you have fixed democracy. Thank you Istanbul," Imamoglu told supporters who made heart signs with their hands, in an expression of the inclusive election rhetoric that has been the hallmark of his campaigning. "We came to embrace everyone," Imamoglu said. "We will build democracy in this city, we will build justice. In this beautiful city, I promise, we will build the future." The High Electoral Board has yet to announce the formal results, but Erdogan has already congratulated Imamoglu for his victory and Imamoglu's rival, Binali Yildirim, of the ruling AK Party, wished him luck as mayor barely two hours after polls closed. Waning Support Erdogan has ruled Turkey since 2003, first as prime minister and then as president, becoming the country's most dominant politician since its founder, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, nearly a century ago. His AK Party has strong support among pious and conservative Turks and its stewardship of Turkey's economy through a decade and a half of construction-fuelled growth helped Erdogan win more than a dozen national and local elections. But the economic recession and a financial crisis have eroded that support and Erdogan's ever-tighter control over government has alarmed some voters. Turkey's lira tumbled after the decision to annul the March vote and is down 8% this year in part on election jitters. It firmed to 5.72 overnight from Friday's close of 5.8140 but eased back to 5.7750 by 0500 GMT. Imamoglu won support even in the traditionally pious Istanbul districts, once known as AK Party strongholds, ending the 25-year-long Islamist rule in the country's largest city. "This re-run (election) was one to put an end to the dictatorship," said Gulcan Demirkaya, a 48-year-old housewife in Istanbul's AKP-leaning Kagithane district. "God willing, I would like to see him as the president in five years' time. The one-man rule should come to an end." The results are likely to trigger a new chapter in Turkish politics, with the country's top three cities now held by the opposition, and could trigger cracks within Erdogan's AK Party, while bringing the economic troubles more to the centre. "This is definitely going to have an impact on the future of Turkish politics given the margin of victory. It's an alarming sign for the AKP establishment," said Sinan Ulgen, visiting scholar at Carnegie Europe in Brussels and former Turkish diplomat. Analysts say the loss could set off a Cabinet reshuffle in Ankara and adjustments to foreign policy. It could even trigger a national election earlier than 2023 as scheduled, although the leader of the AKP's nationalist ally played down that prospect. "Turkey should now return to its real agenda, the election process should close," MHP party leader Devlet Bahceli said. "Talking of an early election would be among the worst things that can be done to our country." The uncertainty over the fate of Istanbul and potential delays in broader economic reforms have kept financial markets on edge. Threats of sanctions by the United States if Erdogan goes ahead with plans to install Russian missile defences have also weighed on the markets.

Turkey's opposition strikes blow to Erdogan with Istanbul mayoral win

Opposition party candidate Ekrem Imamoglu won the revote for Istanbul mayor by a wide margin Sunday, handing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan a stunning political defeat, according to preliminary results.

Turkey: Istanbul votes in 'historic' rerun of mayoral vote

Millions of Istanbul residents began voting on Sunday in a re-run of a mayoral election that has become a referendum on President Tayyip Erdogan's policies and a test of Turkey's ailing democracy.

In the initial March 31 vote, the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) candidate secured a narrow victory over Erdogan's AK Party (AKP) in Turkey's largest city, a rare electoral defeat for the president amid mounting economic woes.

But after weeks of AKP appeals, Turkey's High Election Board in May annulled the vote citing irregularities. The opposition called the decision a "coup" against democracy, which has raised the stakes for round two.

Polling stations across Istanbul opened at 8:00 a.m. (0500 GMT), with 10.56 million people registered to vote in a city which makes up nearly a fifth of Turkey's 82 million population. Voting ends at 5:00 p.m. Results will be announced in the evening.

Erdogan has repeated his line that "whoever wins Istanbul wins Turkey." A second loss in the city, where in the 1990s he served as mayor, would be embarrassing for Erdogan and could weaken what until recently seemed to be his iron grip on power.

Turkey's economy is in recession and the United States, its NATO ally, has threatened sanctions if Erdogan goes ahead with plans to install Russian missile defences.

A second AKP loss could also shed further light into what CHP mayoral candidate Ekrem Imamoglu said was the misspending of billions of lira at the Istanbul municipality, which has a budget of around $4 billion.

"If Imamoglu wins again, there's going to be a chain of serious changes in Turkish politics," journalist and writer Murat Yetkin said.

"It will be interpreted as the beginning of a decline for AKP and for Erdogan as well," he said, noting that the president himself had called the local elections "a matter of survival".

Another Imamoglu win could eventually trigger a national election earlier than 2023 as scheduled, a cabinet reshuffle, and even a potential adjustment in foreign policy, Yetkin added.

To narrow the roughly 13,000-vote gap in March, the AKP re-calibrated its message recently to court Kurdish voters, who make up about 15% of voters in the city of 15 million.

The campaign received a twist when jailed Kurdish militant leader Abdullah Ocalan urged the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) to stay neutral in the vote. The HDP, which backs Imamoglu, accused Erdogan of trying to divide Kurds.

Democracy at stake&nbsp;

Having campaigned hard ahead of the March vote, a strategy that many within AKP believe has backfired, Erdogan initially kept a low-profile this month. But last week he returned to his combative campaigning and targeted Imamoglu directly, including threatening him with legal action, raising questions over whether the AKP would accept a second defeat.

Polls have shown Imamoglu, a former district mayor, retaining a lead over his AKP rival, former prime minister Binali Yildirim. Some polls put him up to 9 percentage points ahead, with his more inclusive message resonating with some voters.

Yusuf Mert, who works at a textile shop in the working class Esenyurt district, complained about a lack of business and rising unemployment. He said he was unconvinced by what he saw as Yildirim's new focus on policies.

"We have seen it all and we've heard it all in the past 20 years. What else is there to do? Imamoglu won and they denied him his mandate," Mert said.

The decision to re-run the vote drew international criticism and accusations from Turkey's opposition of an erosion in the rule of law. Residents in several districts took to the streets banging pots and pans in protest.

Some voters told that an AKP victory on Sunday could lead to bigger protests.

The uncertainty over the fate of Istanbul, Turkey's business hub, and potential delays in broader economic reforms, have kept financial markets on edge. Turkey's lira currency tumbled after the decision to annul the March vote and is down nearly 10% this year in part on election jitters.

Howard Eissenstat, nonresident senior fellow at think-tank POMED, said the AKP's legitimacy had rested on its purported respect for elections expressing the will of the people.

"But these claims have been more myth than reality," he said. "The undoing of the result in Istanbul highlights just how empty these claims are today."

Millions of Istanbul residents began voting on Sunday in a re-run of a mayoral election that has become a referendum on President Tayyip Erdogan's policies and a test of Turkey's ailing democracy.

Millions of Istanbul residents began voting on Sunday in a re-run of a mayoral election that has become a referendum on President Tayyip Erdogan's policies and a test of Turkey's ailing democracy. In the initial March 31 vote, the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) candidate secured a narrow victory over Erdogan's AK Party (AKP) in Turkey's largest city, a rare electoral defeat for the president amid mounting economic woes. But after weeks of AKP appeals, Turkey's High Election Board in May annulled the vote citing irregularities. The opposition called the decision a "coup" against democracy, which has raised the stakes for round two. Polling stations across Istanbul opened at 8:00 a.m. (0500 GMT), with 10.56 million people registered to vote in a city which makes up nearly a fifth of Turkey's 82 million population. Voting ends at 5:00 p.m. Results will be announced in the evening. Erdogan has repeated his line that "whoever wins Istanbul wins Turkey." A second loss in the city, where in the 1990s he served as mayor, would be embarrassing for Erdogan and could weaken what until recently seemed to be his iron grip on power. Turkey's economy is in recession and the United States, its NATO ally, has threatened sanctions if Erdogan goes ahead with plans to install Russian missile defences. A second AKP loss could also shed further light into what CHP mayoral candidate Ekrem Imamoglu said was the misspending of billions of lira at the Istanbul municipality, which has a budget of around $4 billion. "If Imamoglu wins again, there's going to be a chain of serious changes in Turkish politics," journalist and writer Murat Yetkin said. "It will be interpreted as the beginning of a decline for AKP and for Erdogan as well," he said, noting that the president himself had called the local elections "a matter of survival". Another Imamoglu win could eventually trigger a national election earlier than 2023 as scheduled, a cabinet reshuffle, and even a potential adjustment in foreign policy, Yetkin added. To narrow the roughly 13,000-vote gap in March, the AKP re-calibrated its message recently to court Kurdish voters, who make up about 15% of voters in the city of 15 million. The campaign received a twist when jailed Kurdish militant leader Abdullah Ocalan urged the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) to stay neutral in the vote. The HDP, which backs Imamoglu, accused Erdogan of trying to divide Kurds. Democracy at stake Having campaigned hard ahead of the March vote, a strategy that many within AKP believe has backfired, Erdogan initially kept a low-profile this month. But last week he returned to his combative campaigning and targeted Imamoglu directly, including threatening him with legal action, raising questions over whether the AKP would accept a second defeat. Polls have shown Imamoglu, a former district mayor, retaining a lead over his AKP rival, former prime minister Binali Yildirim. Some polls put him up to 9 percentage points ahead, with his more inclusive message resonating with some voters. Yusuf Mert, who works at a textile shop in the working class Esenyurt district, complained about a lack of business and rising unemployment. He said he was unconvinced by what he saw as Yildirim's new focus on policies. "We have seen it all and we've heard it all in the past 20 years. What else is there to do? Imamoglu won and they denied him his mandate," Mert said. The decision to re-run the vote drew international criticism and accusations from Turkey's opposition of an erosion in the rule of law. Residents in several districts took to the streets banging pots and pans in protest. Some voters told that an AKP victory on Sunday could lead to bigger protests. The uncertainty over the fate of Istanbul, Turkey's business hub, and potential delays in broader economic reforms, have kept financial markets on edge. Turkey's lira currency tumbled after the decision to annul the March vote and is down nearly 10% this year in part on election jitters. Howard Eissenstat, nonresident senior fellow at think-tank POMED, said the AKP's legitimacy had rested on its purported respect for elections expressing the will of the people. "But these claims have been more myth than reality," he said. "The undoing of the result in Istanbul highlights just how empty these claims are today."

Istanbul votes in mayoral re-run, in test for Turkish democracy, Erdogan

The winner of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/istanbul-awaits-election-verdict-on-erdogan-and-turkish-democracy-229788"> Istanbul's mayoral election re-run</a>, Ekrem Imamoglu, said Sunday that the victory marked a "new beginning" for Turkey and offered to work closely with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

"It was not a single group or party, but the whole of Istanbul and Turkey that won this election," Imamoglu said in his victory speech.&nbsp;

With almost 99 percent of votes counted, he had 54 percent of the vote against the ruling AKP party's Binali Yildirim on 45.1 per cent.&nbsp;

His lead of more than 775,000 votes marked a huge increase on his victory in March, when he won by just 13,000.&nbsp;

That win was annulled by election authorities after Erdogan's AKP party claimed there was corruption in the counting.&nbsp;

"Mr President, I am ready to work in harmony with you. I convey from here my request to meet with you in the shortest time possible," Imamoglu said.

"I will work diligently without discriminating against anyone," he added, before concluding with his campaign slogan: "Everything will be fine."

The winner of Istanbul's mayoral election re-run, Ekrem Imamoglu, said Sunday that the victory marked a "new beginning" for Turkey and offered to work closely with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The winner of Istanbul's mayoral election re-run, Ekrem Imamoglu, said Sunday that the victory marked a "new beginning" for Turkey and offered to work closely with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "It was not a single group or party, but the whole of Istanbul and Turkey that won this election," Imamoglu said in his victory speech. With almost 99 percent of votes counted, he had 54 percent of the vote against the ruling AKP party's Binali Yildirim on 45.1 per cent. His lead of more than 775,000 votes marked a huge increase on his victory in March, when he won by just 13,000. That win was annulled by election authorities after Erdogan's AKP party claimed there was corruption in the counting. "Mr President, I am ready to work in harmony with you. I convey from here my request to meet with you in the shortest time possible," Imamoglu said. "I will work diligently without discriminating against anyone," he added, before concluding with his campaign slogan: "Everything will be fine."

Istanbul mayor says win marks 'new beginning' for Turkey

Polls closed in Sunday's replay of the mayoral election in Istanbul, with voters anxiously awaiting a verdict seen as crucial to the future of Turkish democracy and its long-ruling president, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-to-push-for-trial-of-egyptian-government-over-morsis-death-228805">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a>.&nbsp;

Ekrem Imamoglu was a little-known district mayor who caused a huge upset when he narrowly beat the candidate of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-endorses-un-report-on-khashoggi-murder-228798">Erdogan</a>'s ruling party in March.&nbsp;

Election authorities annulled that result after Erdogan claimed irregularities in the counting -- but that has only galvanised Imamoglu who vowed "a battle for democracy" to take back the city of 15 million.

Critics say Erdogan simply refused to give up control of Istanbul, Turkey's economic powerhouse and a crucial source of patronage for Islamic conservatives since he won the mayorship himself a quarter-century ago.

But being stripped of the victory has turned Imamoglu, of the secular Republican People's Party, into a household name.

"Today our people will make the best decision... for the sake of our democracy, for Istanbul and also for the legitimacy of all future elections," he said after voting.

His upbeat message under the slogan "Everything will be fine" is in contrast to the usual aggressive name-calling of Turkish politics.

The message had struck a chord among voters.&nbsp;

"I'm nervous but I'm sure of the result," said one 26-year-old supporter on Sunday. "The interest in the first election was far less. Now things are different and I believe Ekrem Imamoglu will win by a big margin."

But Imamoglu faces the juggernaut of the AKP, which has ruled Turkey since 2002 and remains the most popular political force nationwide thanks to years of dramatic growth and support for previously-excluded religious conservatives.&nbsp;

The AKP's candidate is Binali Yildirim, a mild-mannered Erdogan loyalist who oversaw several huge transport projects and served as prime minister.

He struck a conciliatory tone on Sunday, saying: "If we have wronged, knowingly or unknowingly, one of our fellow Istanbulites or our challengers, if we have done something unjust, I ask for your forgiveness," he said.

Results of the vote are expected Sunday evening.&nbsp;

- 'Lose-lose situation' -

Analysts say that the re-run is a lose-lose proposition for Erdogan: a second defeat would undermine his image of invincibility and embolden rivals within his party, while a victory would forever be seen by the opposition as stolen.

It comes as an economic slump and rising prices have dented his reputation for economic stewardship, with the AKP also losing the capital Ankara in March.&nbsp;

For many conservatives, Erdogan remains a hero who brought prosperity and has fiercely defended the country's interests.

Most accept the line that the re-run was necessary.

"If there's something like stolen votes, I think it's better to re-do the election in the name of democracy," said 45-year-old Huseyin as he queued to cast his ballot.

Erdogan maintained his allegations of irregularities as he voted on Sunday, saying the last election "should not have happened like that".&nbsp;

But the controversy over the re-run may explain his relative silence, with no repeat of the tireless rallying for the March polls, which included 102 appearances in just 50 days.

Erdogan has downplayed the importance of the re-run, saying last week that the choice of mayor was "only a change in the shop window" since the AKP controls almost two-thirds of the city's districts.

Fearing fraud, the opposition has mobilised an army of lawyers from across Turkey to monitor Sunday's election, with the Istanbul Bar Association unfurling a huge banner at their headquarters that reads: "Stand guard for democracy".&nbsp;

"I have always a doubt in the corner of my mind that they would not replay this election for nothing. Anything is possible from the other side," said an Imamoglu supporter.

- The Kurdish factor -

The AKP has gone to great lengths to rally conservative voters who abstained in March.&nbsp;

It has also tried to win over Kurds, who number in the millions in Istanbul and have been angered by the crackdown on Kurdish activists in recent years.&nbsp;

Yildirim travelled to one of the main Kurdish cities of Diyarbakir this month and uttered the word "Kurdistan" -- a taboo in Turkey.

There have even been signs of dialogue with the jailed leader of the Kurdish insurgency, Abdullah Ocalan, who this week called on the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party to remain neutral in the election, though it has continued to back Imamoglu.

Polls closed in Sunday's replay of the mayoral election in Istanbul, with voters anxiously awaiting a verdict seen as crucial to the future of Turkish democracy and its long-ruling president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Polls closed in Sunday's replay of the mayoral election in Istanbul, with voters anxiously awaiting a verdict seen as crucial to the future of Turkish democracy and its long-ruling president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Ekrem Imamoglu was a little-known district mayor who caused a huge upset when he narrowly beat the candidate of Erdogan's ruling party in March. Election authorities annulled that result after Erdogan claimed irregularities in the counting -- but that has only galvanised Imamoglu who vowed "a battle for democracy" to take back the city of 15 million. Critics say Erdogan simply refused to give up control of Istanbul, Turkey's economic powerhouse and a crucial source of patronage for Islamic conservatives since he won the mayorship himself a quarter-century ago. But being stripped of the victory has turned Imamoglu, of the secular Republican People's Party, into a household name. "Today our people will make the best decision... for the sake of our democracy, for Istanbul and also for the legitimacy of all future elections," he said after voting. His upbeat message under the slogan "Everything will be fine" is in contrast to the usual aggressive name-calling of Turkish politics. The message had struck a chord among voters. "I'm nervous but I'm sure of the result," said one 26-year-old supporter on Sunday. "The interest in the first election was far less. Now things are different and I believe Ekrem Imamoglu will win by a big margin." But Imamoglu faces the juggernaut of the AKP, which has ruled Turkey since 2002 and remains the most popular political force nationwide thanks to years of dramatic growth and support for previously-excluded religious conservatives. The AKP's candidate is Binali Yildirim, a mild-mannered Erdogan loyalist who oversaw several huge transport projects and served as prime minister. He struck a conciliatory tone on Sunday, saying: "If we have wronged, knowingly or unknowingly, one of our fellow Istanbulites or our challengers, if we have done something unjust, I ask for your forgiveness," he said. Results of the vote are expected Sunday evening. - 'Lose-lose situation' - Analysts say that the re-run is a lose-lose proposition for Erdogan: a second defeat would undermine his image of invincibility and embolden rivals within his party, while a victory would forever be seen by the opposition as stolen. It comes as an economic slump and rising prices have dented his reputation for economic stewardship, with the AKP also losing the capital Ankara in March. For many conservatives, Erdogan remains a hero who brought prosperity and has fiercely defended the country's interests. Most accept the line that the re-run was necessary. "If there's something like stolen votes, I think it's better to re-do the election in the name of democracy," said 45-year-old Huseyin as he queued to cast his ballot. Erdogan maintained his allegations of irregularities as he voted on Sunday, saying the last election "should not have happened like that". But the controversy over the re-run may explain his relative silence, with no repeat of the tireless rallying for the March polls, which included 102 appearances in just 50 days. Erdogan has downplayed the importance of the re-run, saying last week that the choice of mayor was "only a change in the shop window" since the AKP controls almost two-thirds of the city's districts. Fearing fraud, the opposition has mobilised an army of lawyers from across Turkey to monitor Sunday's election, with the Istanbul Bar Association unfurling a huge banner at their headquarters that reads: "Stand guard for democracy". "I have always a doubt in the corner of my mind that they would not replay this election for nothing. Anything is possible from the other side," said an Imamoglu supporter. - The Kurdish factor - The AKP has gone to great lengths to rally conservative voters who abstained in March. It has also tried to win over Kurds, who number in the millions in Istanbul and have been angered by the crackdown on Kurdish activists in recent years. Yildirim travelled to one of the main Kurdish cities of Diyarbakir this month and uttered the word "Kurdistan" -- a taboo in Turkey. There have even been signs of dialogue with the jailed leader of the Kurdish insurgency, Abdullah Ocalan, who this week called on the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party to remain neutral in the election, though it has continued to back Imamoglu.

Istanbul awaits election verdict on Erdogan and Turkish democracy

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