Turkey to Reiterate Offer for Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks at European Leaders Meeting

Turkey is expected to restate its offer to host peace talks between Ukraine and Russia during a meeting of European leaders in London. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will emphasize Turkey’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and a ceasefire. Tensions continue between Zelenskiy and Trump, with Turkey maintaining good relations with both sides.

Turkey is poised to restate its offer to facilitate peace discussions between Ukraine and Russia during the forthcoming gathering of European leaders in London this Sunday, according to a report by Reuters. The country’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is anticipated to provide a briefing on Ankara’s commitment to achieving a “fair and lasting peace” amid the ongoing conflict.

Fidan is expected to reaffirm Turkey’s dedication to maintaining Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He plans to highlight that Turkey, which successfully hosted initial negotiations between the two nations in March 2022, is prepared to assume a similar role in the near future, promoting a focus on regional stability and economic cooperation.

Since 2024, Turkey has persistently advocated for a ceasefire, expressing approval for U.S. initiatives aimed at ending the conflict. Tensions escalated following public disagreements between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. President Donald Trump. Turkey has skillfully maintained cordial relations with both parties while providing military assistance to Kyiv and opting out of Western sanctions against Russia.

Last month, President Zelenskiy visited Turkey on the same day U.S. and Russian representatives, without Kyiv’s involvement, engaged in talks in Riyadh intended to resolve the war. Recently, Zelenskiy emphasized Turkey’s role as a vital security guarantor for Ukraine during his discussions.

On the other hand, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov carried out negotiations in Ankara, with Fidan and Lavrov discussing current developments regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict. The Russian Foreign Ministry characterized Zelenskiy’s trip to Washington as a political misstep amid increasing tensions in Ukraine-U.S. relations.

In summary, Turkey is reaffirming its role as a mediator in the Ukraine-Russia conflict by offering to host discussions at an upcoming European leaders’ meeting. Fidan’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and calls for a ceasefire highlight Ankara’s diplomatic efforts. As relations between Kyiv and Washington become strained, Turkey’s strategic position may play a significant role in seeking peace in the region.

Original Source: www.livemint.com