Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed Turkey’s readiness to host peace talks between Russia and Ukraine aimed at reaching a ceasefire and permanent peace. The announcement came during a phone call between Erdogan and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Key Developments:
- Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul, seeking to end the war.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed willingness to negotiate but emphasized the necessity of a ceasefire before talks could begin.
- Erdogan characterized the moment as a “historic turning point”, urging the world to seize the opportunity for peace.
- Turkey, maintaining strong ties with both Kyiv and Moscow, offered to host the negotiations and contribute to ensuring peace.
Turkey has historically played a role as a neutral mediator, previously hosting Russia-Ukraine talks in March 2022. Turkey’s diplomatic efforts have helped maintain cordial relations with both countries, despite the ongoing conflict.
