Turkish Foreign Minister Reaffirms Readiness to Host Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has reaffirmed Turkey's commitment to hosting negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, stating that diplomacy remains the only viable path to resolving the ongoing conflict. During talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow on June 16, Fidan expressed his country's desire to see a peaceful resolution to the war and reiterated Turkey's readiness to facilitate further rounds of negotiations. He emphasized that bringing Russia and Ukraine back to the negotiating table is a fundamental priority for Turkey and indicated willingness to discuss how to advance talks in a more results-oriented manner should the parties reach an agreement.

Fidan also raised serious concerns about the recent escalation of hostilities, warning that the conflict risks spreading geographically. He specifically highlighted the increased number of attacks on rear targets and threats to freedom of navigation in the Black Sea, noting that such actions harm the interests of third countries and regional stability. The Turkish diplomat called for measures to ease tensions and address these escalating concerns.

Turkey has long positioned itself as a potential neutral mediator in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, having hosted previous rounds of peace talks. Fidan's remarks underscore Turkey's continued diplomatic efforts to facilitate negotiations and reduce the humanitarian and economic toll of the war, particularly given the strategic importance of the Black Sea region to Turkish and international interests.