Turkey warned Russia against actions that threaten the country’s security and interests in the Black Sea and again offered mediation in the war with Ukraine. This was stated by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan during a conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Tuesday.
Fidan emphasized the need to avoid any incidents that could harm Turkey’s interests in the Black Sea and regional security. In recent months, Ukraine and Russia have mutually accused each other of drone attacks on tankers near the northern coast of Turkey, including one vessel owned by Turkey. Ankara has protested to both Kyiv and Moscow over these incidents.
Turkey is Ready for Negotiations
Speaking at a press conference in Moscow with Lavrov, Fidan noted that a priority for Turkey is to restore negotiations between the parties and to stop the war as soon as possible. He confirmed Turkey’s readiness to again host the next rounds of negotiations if the parties agree and to discuss how they can be more results-oriented.
Turkey, which has previously hosted direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, is against any attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. In April, Kyiv appealed to Ankara for mediation, including a meeting at the level of leaders.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Turkey has maintained friendly ties with both Moscow and Kyiv. This July, Turkey will host a NATO summit.
Source: The Straits Times