Turkey is ideal for negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and US, says Erdogan

President of Turkey, Recep Erdoğan, stated that during the past three years, his country has taken direct initiatives with both Russia and Ukraine.

He mentioned this at a press conference after his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ankara.

"Over the past three years, we have taken direct initiatives with Russia and Ukraine. In these initiatives, we sincerely tried to be reliable mediators for both countries, and we achieved specific results. At this stage, we have a diplomatic initiative that Mr. Trump started for a quick end to the war through negotiations. This approach aligns with the policy Turkey has been pursuing for the past four years. In fact, the Istanbul negotiations have created a pivotal platform where the parties came closest to an agreement," he said.

Erdogan noted that Turkey supports Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence and believes that his country could host possible negotiations between Ukraine, the US, and Russia.

"Considering the active diplomatic activity we have carried out over the past three years, our country is the ideal place for negotiations that are likely to begin between Russia, Ukraine, and America. During my talks with Mr. Zelenskyy, I stated that Turkey supports Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence. 

At the same time, I emphasized that we will provide any support necessary for the completion of negotiations and the establishment of lasting peace. This war, which has caused the deaths of many innocents and led to enormous destruction, must end. I also mentioned that our country will continue working on measures aimed at ensuring the security of shipping in the Black Sea. These steps in the Black Sea will contribute to building trust, and I sincerely believe in this," the Turkish president noted.

• On February 18, a meeting took place between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Turkish President Recep Erdoğan in Ankara.