Erdogan: Turkey ready to support Russia-Ukraine talks, incl leaders' meeting
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has confirmed Ankara’s readiness to facilitate direct talks between Ukraine and Russia, including a possible summit at the leaders’ level, provided both sides are willing.
In his speech at the fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday, Erdogan expressed regret over the destruction and loss of life caused by the war in Ukraine.
"We still believe that the war will end through a negotiation process in which the parties will be represented fairly and equally. I would like to state here sincerely that Turkey is ready to support all steps that contribute to the continuation of direct negotiations, including a meeting at the leaders’ level, if the parties so desire," he said.
Earlier, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha confirmed Ukraine’s readiness for a meeting at the level of the leaders of Ukraine and Russia with the participation of the Turkish president and, possibly, the United States.
During a public discussion at ADF Talks at the fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday, Sybiha stressed that Turkey is a country with "unique diplomatic experience and global influence." He again thanked the Turkish side for its support, including for helping establish the Black Sea Grain Corridor after the start of Russia’s full-scale aggression.
"And we also rely on our Turkish friends, for example, in organizing a meeting at the leaders’ level. So we are ready for this meeting. Also in Turkey. I mean a meeting between Zelenskyy, Putin, Mr. Erdogan, possibly Trump. We conveyed this message to our Turkish friends during my president’s recent visit," Sybiha said.