Turkey to Reiterate Offer for Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks at European Meeting
Turkey is expected to reaffirm its offer to mediate peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in London during a meeting of European leaders. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will discuss Ankara’s peace initiatives and reiterate support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. Turkey aims to facilitate long-term stability and economic growth while maintaining diplomatic ties with both nations.
Turkey is poised to reaffirm its offer to host peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia during the upcoming meeting of European leaders in London. Reports suggest that Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will discuss Ankara’s initiatives aimed at achieving a “fair and lasting peace” in the ongoing conflict, while also emphasizing Turkey’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Since March 2022, Turkey, a NATO member, has facilitated discussions between the two nations, which led to an agreement for safe grain exports from the Black Sea. Minister Fidan is expected to express Turkey’s readiness to mediate future talks, highlighting the importance of collaboration for long-lasting regional stability and economic growth.
Turkey has consistently advocated for a ceasefire since 2024 and appreciated the recent U.S. initiative aimed at resolving the war. However, tensions escalated following a contentious meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. President Donald Trump, leading to a deterioration in relations between Ukraine and its key military ally.
Despite the war, Turkey has maintained constructive relationships with both Ukraine and Russia. It has provided military assistance to Ukraine while abstaining from participating in sanctions against Russia. Zelenskiy’s recent visit to Turkey coincided with U.S.-Russian talks that did not include Ukrainian representatives, emphasizing Turkey’s role as a potential security guarantor for Ukraine.
Last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held discussions in Ankara, underscoring ongoing dialogues surrounding the resolution of the conflict. Following Zelenskiy’s contentious Washington visit, Russian officials labeled it a diplomatic failure, reflecting the tensions within Ukraine’s alliances and the broader geopolitical landscape.
In summary, Turkey is set to reiterate its commitment to facilitate peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, underlining its role as a mediator. Amidst rising tensions in international relations, particularly between Ukraine and the U.S., Turkey aims to support Ukraine’s sovereignty while maintaining its diplomatic ties with Russia. This strategic position underscores Turkey’s intention to contribute to regional stability through renewed negotiations. Overall, Turkey’s diplomatic initiatives may play a crucial role in addressing the ongoing conflict and fostering enduring peace in the region.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
