Turkey to Reaffirm Peace Talks Offer for Ukraine-Russia Conflict at European Leaders Meeting

Turkey is likely to restate its offer to mediate peace talks between Ukraine and Russia during a European leaders meeting in London. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will present Turkey’s efforts for a sustainable resolution, emphasizing the importance of regional stability and the facilitation of negotiations. Additionally, tensions between Ukraine and the U.S. were highlighted by Zelenskiy’s recent trip to Washington, perceived by Russia as a diplomatic failure.

Turkey is poised to reiterate its proposal to facilitate peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia at the upcoming meeting of European leaders in London, as reported by Reuters. During this meeting, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is set to brief attendees on Ankara’s initiatives aimed at achieving a ‘fair and lasting peace’ in the ongoing conflict, while reaffirming Turkey’s commitment to upholding Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

In March 2022, Turkey successfully hosted preliminary talks between Ukraine and Russia, which resulted in an agreement regarding the safe passage of grain exports across the Black Sea. Fidan is anticipated to “underline that Turkey, which hosted direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in March 2022, is ready to take up this role in the coming period.” He will emphasize the necessity for all parties to focus on achieving enduring regional security and stability alongside economic prosperity during the negotiations.

Turkey has consistently advocated for a ceasefire since 2024 and has supported the recent U.S. initiative to end the war. This initiative faced challenges due to a public disagreement between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. President Donald Trump. Turkey has maintained a balanced relationship with both Ukraine and Russia throughout the conflict, providing military assistance to Kyiv while abstaining from Western sanctions against Moscow.

Last month, President Zelenskiy visited Turkey amidst discussions between U.S. and Russian representatives, which did not include Ukraine, aimed at resolving the war. Recently, Zelenskiy expressed that he views Turkey as a vital security partner for Ukraine. Following this, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held discussions in Ankara, addressing the ongoing developments related to the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

On a related note, the Russian Foreign Ministry criticized President Zelenskiy’s recent trip to Washington, labeling it a political and diplomatic failure and suggesting his continued focus on warfare. In a statement released by Maria Zakharova, the spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, they claimed, “The visit … to Washington on February 28 is a complete political and diplomatic failure by the Kyiv regime.”

In conclusion, Turkey is expected to reaffirm its role as a potential host for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia during the European leaders’ meeting. Turkey’s commitment to both nations and its previous successful mediation efforts position it as a key player in pursuing a resolution to the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, tensions between Ukraine and the U.S. have strained relations, complicating the path to peace.

Original Source: www.livemint.com