Published：Jun 18, 11:14Last updated：Jun 30, 23:10

Turkey Reopens Orthodox Seminary Amid NATO Summit Talks

Jun. 18, 2026 11:14

Turkey plans to reopen the Halki Theological School, a Christian Orthodox seminary, amid pressure from the US and EU. The move is seen as a concession to international demands for religious freedom. The seminary, located in Istanbul, has been closed for decades, and its reopening could improve Turkey’s relations with Western nations.

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Jun. 30, 2026 13:09

Reports suggest the US may sell F-35s to Turkey if Ankara transfers its Russian S-400 systems to a third country, possibly South Korea. The news was published on June 30, 2026.

Jun. 30, 2026 23:10

Turkey emphasized that NATO is adapting to the evolving security landscape, with no signs of U.S. withdrawal. As NATO's second-largest military power, Turkey has a robust defense industry. The statement was made on June 30, 2026, highlighting Turkey's strategic role in the alliance. This comes amid concerns over NATO's cohesion and future direction.

Turkey is moving to reopen the Halki Theological School, a historic Christian Orthodox seminary in Istanbul, as part of diplomatic efforts to address international calls for religious freedom. The decision comes ahead of a critical NATO summit in Ankara, where U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to discuss defense deals and alliance cohesion with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan. Bloomberg+2

🏛️ Seminary Reopening Progress

Turkish officials have resumed talks on reopening the Halki Theological School after decades of closure. The move follows pressure from the U.S. and EU, with President Erdogan personally ordering the negotiations. The seminary's revival is seen as a symbolic gesture to improve Turkey's relations with Western nations. Bloomberg+1

✈️ F-35 Jet Negotiations

President Trump hinted at potentially lifting restrictions on F-35 fighter jet sales to Turkey during his upcoming visit. The U.S. had previously excluded Turkey from the program due to its purchase of Russian S-400 systems. Reports suggest a possible compromise involving transferring the S-400s to a third country like South Korea. RIA Novosti+2

🤝 NATO Summit Dynamics

The July 7-8 NATO summit in Ankara will focus on alliance unity, with Trump attending specifically at Erdogan's invitation. Turkey emphasized its role as NATO's second-largest military power while downplaying concerns about U.S. commitment to the alliance. The meeting may address both defense cooperation and geopolitical tensions. RIA Novosti+1

🗣️ Bilateral Leadership Talks

Erdogan confirmed plans for direct discussions with Trump during the summit, where religious freedom and defense deals will likely dominate the agenda. The Turkish president has positioned these talks as crucial for addressing both bilateral issues and broader NATO strategy. Reuters+1

NATOAnkaraDonald TrumpTayyip ErdoganHalki Theological School