The move followed the recent arrest of Turkish opposition leader Ekrem İmamoğlu, which German officials described as an “assault on Turkish democracy.” Berlin cited concerns over the political motivations behind the charges, labelling the situation inappropriate for proceeding with the arms deal.
İmamoğlu, a prominent rival to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, was accused of corruption in what the Turkish opposition claims is a politically driven case. His detention has triggered criticism both domestically and internationally, particularly among NATO allies.
Germany’s veto reverses previous progress toward the sale and raises uncertainty over Turkey’s military modernisation plans. The decision has also caused friction within the Eurofighter consortium, which includes the United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain.
This development adds tension to NATO’s southern flank and contributes to instability in the already complex geopolitics of the Eastern Mediterranean. It also highlights broader concerns in Europe about democratic backsliding in Turkey.
