US, Turkish defense chiefs discuss failed coup

By Kasim Ileri

WASHINGTON

U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter on Tuesday called his Turkish counterpart, Fikri Isik, to voice support for the democratically elected government in Ankara following a recent failed coup attempt.

The call comes four days after the coup attempt by a fraction of officers in the Turkish Armed Forces linked to U.S.-based cleric Gulen.

“For his part, Minister Isik expressed his appreciation for the call and assured the secretary that Turkey remains a determined and committed partner and ally in the fight against ISIL and terrorism of all kinds,” Defense Department Peter Cook said in a statement.

Isik told Carter that his plans to attend a counter-Daesh defense ministerial meeting Wednesday in Washington DC were disrupted by the attempted coup but that he would send an official from the Turkish embassy in his place, according to Cook.

The two defense chiefs also discussed the situation at the Incirlik Air Base where U.S. aircraft are launching airstrikes against Daesh, Cook said.

The spokesman failed to respond questions on Monday why the Secretary was so late in calling his Turkish counterpart.