Turkey Set to Reaffirm Offer for Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks in London

Turkey is set to reaffirm its offer to host peace talks between Ukraine and Russia at a meeting of European leaders in London. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will emphasize Turkey’s commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity and outline Ankara’s diplomatic roles. Amid ongoing conflict, he will stress the need for ceasefires and stable regional relations.

Turkey is anticipated to reaffirm its offer to host peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia during the upcoming meeting of European leaders in London. Reports from Reuters indicate that Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, will address the attendees on Ankara’s dedication to achieving a “fair and lasting peace” amidst the ongoing war.

During his briefing, Minister Fidan will reiterate Turkey’s commitment not only to Ukraine’s territorial integrity but also to its sovereignty. This reiteration comes in the wake of Turkey’s previous diplomatic efforts, including facilitating initial talks between Ukraine and Russia in March 2022, which led to an agreement for secure grain exports across the Black Sea.

Fidan is expected to stress that Turkey is poised to play a significant role in future negotiations, emphasizing the collective need for regional security, stability, and economic prosperity. Moreover, Turkey has consistently called for a ceasefire since 2024 and welcomed a recent U.S. initiative aimed at resolving the conflict, despite tensions arising between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. President Donald Trump.

Throughout the war, Turkey has maintained positive relations with both Ukraine and Russia, offering military support to Kyiv while abstaining from Western sanctions against Moscow. Following a recent meeting between Zelenskiy and Turkish officials, Ukrainian sentiments towards Turkey as a crucial security guarantor have been reinforced.

Discussions between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Turkish representatives, including a phone call concerning the Ukraine-Russia conflict, take place against this backdrop. Reports from Russia’s Foreign Ministry criticized Zelenskiy’s recent visit to Washington, describing it as “a complete political and diplomatic failure by the Kyiv regime.”

In summary, Turkey seeks to reinforce its role as a mediator in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, emphasizing its commitment to peace. As Ankara hosts discussions aimed at establishing regional stability, it balances its diplomatic strategies with military support for Ukraine and relations with Russia. Recent developments continue to highlight the complexities surrounding international efforts to curb the ongoing war.

Original Source: www.livemint.com