Zelenskyy says he’s ready for direct talks with Putin as Türkiye offers platform for peace

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signalled his readiness to engage in direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, in what could mark a turning point in efforts to end the war that has stretched into its fourth year.

Following a call with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Zelenskyy said on Telegram that the two leaders discussed “key details” of an upcoming high-level meeting in Türkiye aimed at advancing diplomacy, Caliber.Az reports.

“We are prepared for direct talks with Putin,” Zelenskyy said, emphasising the urgent need for a ceasefire and calling on international partners to ensure its effective monitoring.

“We share a common understanding of the need for a ceasefire,” he said. “It is also very important that we all in Europe continue working together to guarantee long-term security. We will remain in close contact with the United States.”

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Erdoğan’s continued support and Türkiye’s offer to host negotiations, describing Ankara as a “critical facilitator” of peace efforts.

For his part, President Erdoğan underscored Türkiye’s growing role in global diplomacy, revealing a flurry of recent talks with world leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and US President Donald Trump.

“Just a short while ago, we also spoke with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy,” Erdoğan said, adding that Türkiye remains committed to supporting diplomatic initiatives.

He noted that he and Putin had discussed several “key issues” relating to the war, including a pathway to ending the conflict. Erdoğan praised Trump’s stated commitment to resolving global disputes through dialogue, saying, “We support my dear friend Trump’s commitment to resolving active conflicts through diplomacy.”

The Turkish leader also recalled the near-breakthrough in March 2022, when negotiations appeared close to a resolution before collapsing. He blamed “war barons” for sabotaging the effort, resulting in further civilian suffering. However, Erdoğan said the current moment presents a new chance for diplomacy, citing consensus among Russia, Ukraine, the United States, and Europe on the need to revive talks.

“As the only country to have gained the trust of all parties, we have reiterated that we are ready to contribute to these talks and would be pleased to host them,” Erdoğan said. “With the latest contacts, we believe a new window of opportunity has opened. This time, we believe the opportunity will not be squandered.”

Both leaders agreed to continue their joint efforts in pursuit of peace, amid growing international momentum behind a diplomatic solution.

By Aghakazim Guliyev