Turkey Offers to Mediate Russia-Ukraine Talks, Erdogan Assures Zelensky

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Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that Turkey is ready to help facilitate any high-level peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, according to a statement from his office.

Erdogan’s Call to Zelensky

In a phone conversation with Zelensky, Erdogan emphasized Ankara’s willingness to play a constructive role in efforts to reduce tensions. He said Turkey stands ready to support dialogue if both sides agree to sit at the negotiating table. Erdogan’s office noted that Turkey continues to monitor the conflict closely and remains committed to contributing to diplomatic efforts.

Turkey’s Role in Mediation

Turkey has positioned itself as a potential mediator since the start of the conflict, citing its strategic ties with both Moscow and Kyiv. In past efforts, Ankara played a central role in brokering the Black Sea grain export deal, which allowed shipments of Ukrainian grain despite wartime restrictions. This experience has given Turkey credibility as a facilitator of dialogue between the two sides.

Importance of High-Level Talks

Erdogan’s outreach comes at a time when prospects for negotiations remain difficult. Both Ukraine and Russia have taken firm positions, but Erdogan reiterated that dialogue remains the only path toward reducing hostilities. He expressed Turkey’s readiness to host or support talks at the highest level, should the opportunity arise.

Broader Diplomatic Context

Turkey, a NATO member, has maintained close relations with both Russia and Ukraine throughout the conflict. While supplying Ukraine with drones and humanitarian assistance, Ankara has also preserved energy and trade ties with Moscow. Erdogan has consistently argued that balanced diplomacy enables Turkey to serve as a bridge between the two nations.

By offering to assist in organizing future talks, Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s role as a key diplomatic actor in the ongoing conflict. While no negotiations have yet been scheduled, Ankara’s willingness to engage reflects its continued pursuit of dialogue as a means to ease tensions between Russia and Ukraine.