In a gathering lasting about an hour, Erdogan and Zelenskyy mentioned developments within the Ukraine-Russia struggle, delivery safety within the Black Sea together with the defunct grain deal, and defence business cooperation, in accordance with the 2 sides.
NATO member Turkey helps Ukraine’s territorial integrity, but additionally maintains cordial relations with Russia, and frequently speaks with either side within the battle, notably as a sponsor of the Black Sea deal that lifted a de facto Russian blockade of Ukrainian grain exports.
“We mentioned developments in regards to the struggle intimately right now, I acknowledged our observations with all my sincerity,” Erdogan mentioned at a press convention alongside Zelenskyy, whose journey comes earlier than an anticipated go to by Russian President Vladimir Putin following elections in Russia, on Mar 15-17.
“We’re giving our utmost contribution for the struggle to finish on the idea of negotiations. We’re able to host a peace summit that Russia will attend too,” he mentioned, including he had reiterated Ankara’s help for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Türkiye had hosted peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in 2022, however has since complained that no diplomatic step has been taken to advance these discussions. It has repeatedly provided to host additional talks, saying a summit of leaders was wanted.
Zelenskyy mentioned Russia wouldn’t be invited to the primary peace summit on account of be held in Switzerland within the coming months, however {that a} Russian consultant may very well be invited to the following assembly after a roadmap for peace had been agreed upon with Ukrainian allies.
“We don’t see any representatives of Russia at this summit. We do not see how one can invite individuals who block, destroy, and kill all the things. We need to get a end result – a simply peace,” he mentioned.
Final week, Turkish International Minister Hakan Fidan mentioned after assembly Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov that it was time for Ukraine and Russia to begin ceasefire talks, however added that this should not imply the popularity of Russia’s occupation.
