Turkey to Reaffirm Offer for Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks at London Meeting

Turkey is expected to reiterate its offer to host Ukraine-Russia peace talks at a European leaders’ meeting in London. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will discuss Turkey’s commitment to a fair peace, Ukraine’s sovereignty, and Turkey’s past mediation efforts. Turkey maintains good relations with both nations while advocating for a ceasefire and regional stability.

Turkey is poised to reaffirm its offer to host peace discussions between Ukraine and Russia during the upcoming European leaders’ meeting in London. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will present Ankara’s endeavors for a “fair and lasting peace” in the ongoing conflict, and he will reaffirm Turkey’s commitment to upholding Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Since March 2022, Turkey, a NATO member, has facilitated initial talks between Ukraine and Russia, which aided in securing a crucial agreement for safe grain exports through the Black Sea. Fidan is expected to emphasize Turkey’s readiness to once again take on the role of a mediator, stressing the need for collaborative efforts toward regional stability and economic prosperity during negotiations.

Turkey has consistently advocated for a ceasefire since 2024 and has expressed support for U.S. initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict. Despite tensions in the U.S.-Ukraine relations, exemplified by a recent disagreement between President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and President Donald Trump, Turkey has maintained positive relations with both nations, providing military support to Ukraine while avoiding sanctions against Russia.

Recently, President Zelenskiy visited Turkey, coinciding with U.S. and Russian discussions aimed at negotiating an end to the war, which did not include Ukraine. In a phone conversation, Fidan and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reviewed the situation surrounding the conflict, reflecting Turkey’s ongoing involvement in diplomatic efforts.

The Russian Foreign Ministry criticized Zelenskiy’s trip to Washington as a strategic misstep for Ukraine, exacerbated by his contentious meeting with Trump. Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova described the visit as a “complete political and diplomatic failure by the Kyiv regime,” illustrating the increasing strains between Kyiv and its primary military ally, the United States.

In summary, Turkey is reaffirming its commitment to host peace talks between Ukraine and Russia amidst ongoing conflicts and diplomatic tensions. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s participation in the upcoming European leaders’ meeting highlights Ankara’s role as a mediator. Turkey’s balanced approach in maintaining relationships with both Ukraine and Russia underscores its strategic position while advocating for regional stability and economic prosperity.

Original Source: www.livemint.com