Tensions high on eve of Trump-Erdogan Summit

Turkey's offensive against Kurdish militia in Syria is expected to be the main topic of discussion between the two presidents, Trump and Erdogan.

For Ankara, Kurdish soldiers are terrorists, but they are the main ally in the US-led battle against Islamic State.

The US congress has threatened to enforce sanctions against Turkey, some of which will personally hit Mr. Erdogan. This week's meeting between the two presidents comes at critical times for relations between the two NATO allies.

“is a long list of problems between the two countries. In fact, the relationship has never been that bad. Matters of importance are Turkey's attack on Syria and US opposition. The situation on the ground is unstable”, says Asli Aydinastasba of the European Council for Foreign Relations.

Despite tensions, the two presidents seem to have built good co-operation relations, which in Ankara is seen as an opportunity for their reaffirmation.

“The historic summit will bring benefits to both sides. I see it with optimism. This will bring new solutions and opportunities between the two actors”, Says Mesut Cass, an adviser to the Turkish president.

But some analysts say waiting for the solution by relying solely on Mr. Trump, could be dangerous strategy.

It was a major strategic mistake for the relationship to depend on President Trump, on one man and on his social networking posts. It's wrong. I'd say it's a Russian roulette in the relationship that's older than a century”, Says Ashley Aydinasbas.

Mr. Erdogan expects President Trump to lift the embargo for the purchase of the latest American fighter aircraft.

The move came in response to Turkey's purchase of the Russian S-400 missile defence system.

Washington is alarmed by deepening Ankara's ties with Moscow.

During his visit, Mr. Erdogan is expected to offer the purchase of American missiles.

Ankara says that if this meeting does not improve US-Turkey reports, Moscow is pending.

“Turkey cannot have a productive alliance with the US, while these threats continue at the maximum. This does not benefit. When you see who takes advantage of the situation, these are Russia and China”, Turkish President Mesut Cass's foreign policy adviser says.

In Syria, Turkish and Russian troops' co-operation has already begun.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to carefully forward President Erdogan's visit to Washington.