Turkish-Russian diplomatic talks focus on situation in Ukraine

The Turkish Foreign Ministry has confirmed that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a phone talk with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to discuss the current situation in Ukraine.

"On March 1, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan had a telephone talk with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The latest developments in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict were discussed," a source in the ministry said, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

The discussion comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, with both countries closely monitoring the evolving situation.

Earlier, Fidan stated that Türkiye is ready to host peace talks on Ukraine and believes that a peaceful settlement must involve both parties to the conflict.

“A peaceful settlement is urgently needed,” Fidan said during a press conference with Lavrov in Ankara. 

"Shortly after the war began, we brought the parties together in Istanbul. We continued our diplomatic efforts to seek a peaceful solution. Today, we are entering the fourth year of the war. We see the US-initiated negotiations, which align with our position and efforts. At the same time, we believe that a solution can be achieved through negotiations involving both sides. In this context, we are ready to provide all possible support and to host peace talks," Fidan said.

Speaking alongside Fidan in Ankara, Lavrov said that the recent Russia-US talks in Riyadh were "highly appreciated" as an opportunity for dialogue despite ongoing differences.

As for Ukraine, Lavrov reiterated Moscow’s willingness to negotiate but said fighting would only stop when a settlement acceptable to Russia is reached.

"We are ready to negotiate with Ukraine, Europe, and any representatives who would like to help achieve peace in good faith, but we will stop fighting only when these negotiations produce a firm and sustainable result that suits the Russian Federation," he said.

By Naila Huseynova