Diplomatic Summit in Istanbul: Erdogan and Zelensky Address Ukraine-Russia War
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warmly received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Istanbul for discussions on the enduring conflict with Russia, the collapsed Black Sea grain transportation agreement, and the strengthening of defence collaboration, according to reports from news.ro citing Reuters.
Zelensky's office delineated the agenda, encompassing deliberations on a peace formula to halt the war with Russia, the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Moscow, and bilateral ties in the defence sector.
At the start of the meeting, Zelensky stressed the importance of Ankara and Kiev collaborating to ensure food security and safe navigation in the Black Sea. He also expressed Ukraine's desire for stronger defence relations with Turkey and sought assistance in securing prisoner releases.
"We aim to enhance bilateral cooperation and co-production with Turkish defence companies," Zelensky stated.
A diplomatic source from Turkey reaffirmed Ankara's unwavering commitment to seeking a resolution through negotiations, while expressing firm support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence.
During a recent diplomatic engagement with Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasised the necessity of ceasefire discussions between Kiev and Moscow, without implying recognition of Russian occupation.
Responding to inquiries about Ukraine's resilience amid potential diminishing Western support, Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Mykola Tochytskyi underscored the importance of a complete withdrawal of Russian forces for cessation of hostilities, acknowledging nuanced backing from Western allies.
The Turkish source disclosed additional agenda items, including the assurance of commercial navigation post-cessation of the Black Sea Initiative, an accord renounced by Russia last July. Facilitated by Turkey and the United Nations, this agreement enabled Ukraine to safely export grains from its Black Sea ports.
Turkey, engaged in a diplomatic balancing act, has extended offers of mediation between the conflicting parties and has pledged military assistance to Kiev, while concurrently advocating against Western sanctions targeting Russia. Moreover, Ankara maintains defence industry collaborations with Ukraine and endeavours to deepen energy cooperation with Russia, thereby positioning itself as a pivotal actor in regional stability initiatives.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
