White House statement on the May 14 elections

White House National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby answered questions from reporters at an online news conference.

When asked about the Turkish elections, Kirby emphasized that Turkey has a tradition of democracy and democratic institutions.

Kirby stated that they generally refrain from commenting on elections or any candidate, adding: “The Turkish nation decides this.” saying.

DEVELOPMENTS IN IRAN AND THE PERSONAL GULF

Noting that Iran has carried out 15 threats, attacks and seizures against commercial carriers sailing in international waters in the past two years, Kirby said: “The United States strongly condemns actions that threaten and interfere with commercial transportation in the Middle East. “. she used the phrase.

Kirby asserted that the US will not allow freedom of navigation in Middle Eastern waters, including the Strait of Hormuz and Babül Mandep, to be jeopardized, and that they are determined to support their regional and international partners on this point.

Noting that in this context, the US Department of Defense (Pentagon) will take a number of steps to strengthen its defense position in the Persian Gulf, Kirby said that the Central Command (CENTCOM) will provide detailed information on these ” reinforcements” in the coming days.

Noting that they will also carry out studies on international maritime security in the region, Kirby said: “The United States is not seeking to escalate the conflict or tension with Iran. Together with our global allies and partners in the Middle East, we are determined to respond to Iran’s aggression to ensure freedom of movement in the Strait of Hormuz and other major waterways.” he said.

SITUATION IN BAHMUT

When asked about the news about the withdrawal of Russian soldiers in Bahmut, Kirby stated that his assessment is that Bahmut remains a contentious area.

“I warn everyone not to believe anything the Russians, especially (Yevgeniy, founder of Russian security company Wagner) Prigojin, have to say about what is happening in Ukraine,” Kirby said. saying.

ALLEGED THAT SOUTH AFRICA SELLS WEAPONS TO RUSSIA

When asked by the US ambassador in Pretoria about the allegation that the Republic of South Africa sold arms and ammunition to Russia in December 2022, Kirby replied that they frequently and strongly warned other countries not to support Russia and were He declined to comment in detail on the matter. do.

Kirby stated that he would not provide information on diplomatic talks on this issue, saying: “This is a serious problem.” she used the phrase. (AA)