Trump Secretly Left Turkey on Military Jet Amid Iran Threat
Washington: US President Donald Trump reportedly made a secret change to his travel plans while leaving Turkey last month, taking a military aircraft instead of the newly renovated Air Force One amid concerns over possible threats from Iran.
Trump had travelled to Ankara for the NATO summit aboard the newly refurbished, Qatari-donated aircraft. It was the plane’s first international trip. However, when it was time to leave Turkey, officials quietly arranged an alternative plan.
According to a report by The Washington Post, Trump first boarded the older Air Force One in front of cameras, giving the impression that he would travel to Britain on that aircraft. He was then secretly moved from the airport to a smaller military aircraft, a C-32A, using an airport catering truck.
The unusual operation reportedly took place because of heightened security concerns as tensions with Iran were escalating. Iran shares a border with Turkey, adding to concerns about the president’s safety.
The C-32A flew to Britain and landed at RAF Mildenhall at around 10:20 pm. The older Air Force One, carrying journalists and members of the media, arrived only minutes later.
Trump had earlier said on Truth Social that he planned to use the older, baby-blue Air Force One “for old time’s sake” for the journey from Ankara to RAF Mildenhall. He also said the newer aircraft would stop at the same base so US service members could get a closer look at the plane.
The revelation that Trump had actually travelled on a third aircraft has raised questions about the security arrangements surrounding the newly renovated presidential jet.
The White House defended the decision, saying the Qatari-donated aircraft had been equipped with advanced security measures designed to protect the president and his staff.
White House Communications Director Steve Cheung said the president faces threats from multiple enemies of the United States and that officials use every available measure to ensure his safety.
The Pentagon did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The incident highlights the extraordinary security measures that can surround presidential travel, particularly at a time of heightened tensions and threats involving Iran.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
