President Donald Trump was moved out of Turkey via a clandestine operation last month to maintain security amid regional tensions.
Key facts
- •The operation occurred following the NATO summit in Turkey.
- •A catering truck was used to facilitate the president's secret boarding of the C-32 aircraft.
- •The flight path concluded at the Mildenhall air force base in the United Kingdom.
- •The president transitioned between multiple aircraft to maintain a public appearance.
- •White House communications director Steven Cheung noted the use of 'distraction and misdirection' as security tools.
President Donald Trump was transported out of Turkey on a military aircraft last month as part of a secret operation to conceal his location. The move was reportedly prompted by security concerns related to the ongoing war with Iran.
Details of the Clandestine Operation
According to a U.S. official, the operation involved using a catering truck to board the president onto a C-32 aircraft at Ankara. The plane flew to the Mildenhall air force base in the United Kingdom. Upon arrival, Trump secretly deplaned and boarded an older Air Force One jet before appearing in public view to transition to a newer, Qatari-donated aircraft.
White House and Air Force Response
White House communications director Steven Cheung did not dispute reports regarding the operation. He stated that the administration uses various tools to address threats against the president. Regarding the newer, Qatari-donated jet, the U.S. Air Force issued a statement affirming that the aircraft is safe, secure, and equipped with advanced technology for presidential missions.
Timeline
- July 8President Trump attended the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey.
- Last monthThe president was transported out of Turkey via a secret military operation.
- Monday nightWhite House communications director Steven Cheung addressed inquiries regarding the travel operation.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by NBC Politics, NBC Politics.
