According to the Turkish minister, his representative in Washington showed an understanding of the Turkish position. Cavusoglu again accused Finland and Sweden of supporting Kurdish organizations that the Turkish government considers terrorists in Ankara. He also accused Sweden of supplying weapons to organizations. He said he understood that both countries wanted to join NATO after the Russian occupation of Ukraine. “We understand their security concerns, but Turkey’s security concerns must also be taken into account.” Blingen is quoted as saying that Turkey’s concerns are well established and will be communicated to Stockholm and Helsinki.

Despite the current siege of Turkey, US President Joe Biden is hopeful that Finland and Sweden will eventually join NATO. The White House said it hoped the two countries would have an effective access process that could address Turkey’s concerns.