U.S. Cannot Interfere in our Domestic Affairs

At Esenboga Airport, reminded of U.S. Ambassador to Ankara Eric Edelman’s statement, "Denktas should not obstruct developments", Denktas told journalists: "We consider America our ally. Of course a blow from an ally hurts more."

The U.S. had previously stated that the Annan Plan suited their interests. Denktas commented, "We would not like to do any harm to American interests, but we do not have the same interests." He also said that it was not possible to accept a plan that would eliminate Turkey’s guarantor-state status.

Denktas said: "We did not expect any help from America. We did not say ‘come and rescue us’. They have no right to tell us `surrender and be free. Because what they are saying is, ‘surrender and be free’. We cannot tolerate America intervening in our domestic affairs to such an extent. If they are to help us, they shouldn’t take a side."