Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has emphasized the importance of continuing the third round of Russia-Ukraine negotiations, proposing to hold the talks in Istanbul as soon as convenient dates are determined. The Turkish presidential office reported on Friday that Erdogan, in a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stressed the crucial role of the discussions in achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Erdogan’s advocacy for the talks underscores Turkey’s strategic interest in brokering a ceasefire and facilitating diplomatic engagement between the warring nations. Ankara has consistently positioned itself as a mediator in the conflict, leveraging its geopolitical influence to engage both sides. The decision to host the talks in Istanbul reflects Turkey’s commitment to maintaining its role as a key intermediary in the region.
Despite ongoing hostilities, Erdogan has maintained that dialogue remains the most viable path to de-escalating the situation. His call for the continuation of negotiations highlights Turkey’s continued involvement in the peace process, even as the humanitarian and political challenges persist. The proposed meeting in Istanbul, once the dates are finalized, could signal a potential shift in the dynamics of the conflict and open new avenues for diplomatic outreach.