U.S. Voices Concern Over Istanbul Mayor’s Arrest in Talks with Turkey

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Thursday that he raised concerns with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan regarding protests and detentions in Turkey following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. The high-profile arrest has sparked widespread demonstrations and international criticism, with opposition groups calling it politically motivated. Washington’s statement adds to growing diplomatic pressure on Ankara, as tensions rise over democratic freedoms and political rights in Turkey. The Turkish government has yet to officially respond to Rubio’s remarks, but the issue is expected to further strain U.S.-Turkey relations.