Türkiye reaffirms readiness to back Russia-Ukraine peace talks

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the war between Russia and Ukraine, following a two-day visit to Kyiv during which he held high-level talks with Ukrainian leaders and received a state decoration from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In a post on X, Fidan said his meetings with President Zelenskyy, Head of the Presidential Office Kyrylo Budanov, and Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha focused on bilateral relations and the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine war.

"During our meetings with Ukrainian President Mr. Zelenskyy, Head of the Presidential Office Mr. Budanov, and Foreign Minister Mr. Sybiha, we held comprehensive discussions on bilateral relations and the current situation in the Russia-Ukraine war. Despite the conditions of war, we are deeply satisfied with the continued strengthening of cooperation between our countries," Fidan wrote.

He welcomed Ukraine's parliamentary approval of the Türkiye-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement ahead of the visit, describing it as "a major turning point" that would create new opportunities for businesses in both countries and elevate bilateral economic ties.

Reiterating Ankara's position on the conflict, Fidan said Türkiye had once again affirmed its support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

"As Türkiye, we are ready to support any initiative that brings the parties back to the negotiating table and contributes to achieving a lasting peace," he said.

During the visit, Fidan also met with Crimean Tatar national leader Mustafa Dzhemilev and Refat Chubarov, chairman of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People, stressing that protecting the rights and cultural identity of the Crimean Tatars remains a longstanding priority for Türkiye.

Fidan added that he was honored to receive Ukraine's Order of Merit, Second Class, presented by President Zelenskyy.

"I thank the Ukrainian authorities. Türkiye will continue to strengthen its longstanding friendship and strategic partnership with Ukraine, in line with the vision set by our presidents, based on mutual trust and shared interests," he said.

Fidan visited Ukraine on July 15–16. According to Turkish officials, one of the main objectives of the trip was to clarify Kyiv's position on the prospects for a negotiated settlement of the conflict.

By Vafa Guliyeva