Istanbul, 26 November 2025 – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has proposed hosting talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul, positioning Turkey as a key diplomatic actor in efforts to end the ongoing war.
During a videoconference of the “Volunteers Alliance,” Erdogan emphasized that Ankara will work toward a just and lasting peace, facilitating direct contact between the two sides and supporting any diplomatic initiative aimed at ending the conflict.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly indicated a willingness to move forward with the peace plan proposed by the United States, creating an opening for dialogue focused on tangible results.
This initiative is part of Turkey’s broader strategy to present itself as the primary communication channel between Moscow and Kyiv, building on the precedent of previous negotiation rounds held in Istanbul.
However, significant challenges remain: beyond its symbolic value, the initiative faces the harsh realities of entrenched conflict, competing geopolitical interests, and questions over whether Turkey can act as a truly impartial mediator. The path to a durable and balanced peace is far from certain.
