The Aydinlık newspaper, citing the Turkish Exporters Association (TIM), reported that “Turkey is exploring the possibility of using barter in trade with Russia in the event of the closure of payment systems and increased sanctions pressure,” noting that “the head of the Turkish Exporters Association clarified when asked by journalists about trade transactions with Russia, that even if the sanctions are extended, there will be no problems in trade between the two countries – discussions on the continuation of trade even with the use of barter are currently on the agenda.

She pointed out that “even with a complete stop and closure of payment systems, it is possible to exchange Turkish goods for energy resources purchased in Russia.” It is noteworthy that earlier Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that he could decide on the subsequent use of the Russian Mir card in Turkey.

On Friday morning, the Yeni Şafak newspaper reported that the US was threatening Turkish banks with sanctions for using the Russian payment system.