Turkey to Reiterate Hosting Offer for Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks in London
Turkey is set to reaffirm its offer to host Ukraine-Russia peace talks at a London meeting of European leaders. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will emphasize the need for a lasting peace and commitment to Ukraine’s integrity. Turkey has sustained supportive relations with both nations and advocates for ceasefire efforts amidst ongoing tensions.
Turkey is anticipated to reaffirm its proposal to host peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia during the European leaders’ meeting in London on Sunday, as reported by the news agency Reuters. Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is set to brief leaders on Ankara’s commitment to achieving a “fair and lasting peace” in the ongoing conflict while emphasizing support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
In March 2022, Turkey facilitated initial discussions that led to an agreement for safe grain exports from the Black Sea. Fidan plans to highlight Turkey’s readiness to play a mediatory role once again and will stress the necessity for all parties involved to prioritize long-term regional security, stability, and economic prosperity during negotiations.
Turkey has consistently advocated for a ceasefire since the conflict escalated in 2024 while supporting Ukraine militarily, without adopting Western sanctions against Russia. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy visited Turkey last month, coinciding with US and Russian representatives’ talks in Riyadh that excluded Kyiv’s participation. Last week, Zelenskiy expressed that Turkey is an essential security guarantor for Ukraine.
Recent discussions also took place between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Fidan regarding the latest developments concerning the Ukraine-Russia war. However, the Russian Foreign Ministry criticized Zelenskiy’s trip to Washington, describing it as a political and diplomatic failure, stemming from his conflict with US President Donald Trump at a White House meeting, which has strained Ukraine’s relationship with the United States.
Turkey remains a key player in facilitating dialogue between Ukraine and Russia, reiterating its intention to host peace talks amid ongoing tensions. With a commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and advocating for regional stability, Turkey’s diplomatic efforts reflect its unique position. The developments in international relations and the response from the involved parties highlight the complexities surrounding the conflict, underscoring the critical nature of continued dialogue.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
