Turkey is set to reaffirm its offer to host Ukraine-Russia peace talks during a meeting of European leaders in London. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will present Turkey’s commitment to a fair peace and support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Amid ongoing tensions, Turkey has been facilitating discussions while maintaining strong ties with both Ukraine and Russia, despite the recent diplomatic strains between Kyiv and Washington.
Turkey is poised to reaffirm its invitation to facilitate peace discussions between Ukraine and Russia at the forthcoming meeting of European leaders in London on Sunday. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will share insights into Ankara’s ongoing initiatives aimed at achieving a “fair and lasting peace” in the conflict, as reported by Reuters. He will also reiterate Turkey’s dedication to upholding Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
In March 2022, Turkey, a NATO member, successfully hosted preliminary negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, leading to an agreement for secure grain exports in the Black Sea. Fidan is expected to advocate for Turkey’s readiness to serve as a mediator once more in the current period. He will emphasize the necessity for all parties to focus collaboratively on ensuring lasting regional security and economic stability during negotiations.
Since 2024, Turkey has consistently promoted calls for a ceasefire and has welcomed U.S. efforts to conclude the ongoing conflict. Recently, tensions arose following a public dispute between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump. Turkey has balanced its foreign relations effectively, offering military assistance to Ukraine while abstaining from endorsing Western sanctions against Russia.
Last month, President Zelenskyy visited Turkey on the same day that U.S. and Russian officials convened in Riyadh for discussions aimed at resolving the war, excluding Ukraine from the talks. Zelenskyy expressed that he regards Turkey as a pivotal security guarantor for Ukraine. Recently, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov engaged in discussions in Ankara about the latest developments in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Following a phone call on Saturday between Fidan and Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Ministry criticized Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington, describing it as a political and diplomatic misstep. Notably, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that his visit represented a significant failure for the Kyiv administration. Subsequently, the strained relationship between Kyiv and Washington, a crucial military ally, appears to have reached a new low.
In conclusion, Turkey is reinforcing its position as a potential mediator in the Ukraine-Russia conflict by reiterating its offer to host peace talks. With ongoing discussions on achieving stability and addressing territorial integrity, the situation is evolving amid criticism of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and the United States. As Turkey maintains its balanced approach, it continues to advocate for a ceasefire and constructive dialogue for peace.
Original Source: www.livemint.com