High-Level Exchange Between Russia and Turkey on Ukraine and Regional Cooperation
Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke by phone with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss ongoing developments in Ukraine. The conversation was reported by the Turkish presidency and confirmed by multiple news agencies. Erdogan expressed appreciation for Moscow’s stance on extending the grain agreement, a move he credited with stabilizing global food supplies during a volatile period.
During their discussion, both leaders explored avenues to strengthen bilateral ties between Turkey and Russia. They also reviewed key events tied to the broader Russia-Ukraine conflict, with a focus on reducing tensions and fostering constructive dialogue. Erdogan emphasized that Turkey regards a peaceful, negotiated settlement to the conflict as a priority and believes diplomacy should be the path to a durable resolution. News outlets cited Ankara as underscoring the importance of negotiations and expressing readiness to support diplomatic initiatives aimed at bringing the sides to the table.
In remarks reflecting Turkey’s position, Erdogan reiterated that Ankara does not intend to become a party to the conflict, and he underscored Turkey’s role as a facilitator for dialogue among the leaders involved. He reiterated his aim to help organize direct talks between Vladimir Putin and Ukraine’s leader, President Volodymyr Zelensky, within a framework that respects regional borders and international norms. The Turkish president highlighted continued diplomatic efforts to bridge gaps and create conditions favorable to negotiations.
Alongside the political dialogue, Erdogan signaled Turkey’s willingness to play a constructive role in economic and humanitarian aspects of the crisis. He noted Ankara’s readiness to assist in initiating the supply of fertilizers from Russia to global markets, a move viewed as part of stabilizing agricultural inputs and regional food security during periods of market disruption. This willingness to support trade and logistics was presented as part of a broader effort to sustain cooperation that benefits both nations and their partners.
Overall, the phone conversation underscored a mutual interest in de-escalation and a commitment to exploring diplomatic pathways. Both leaders touched on the importance of maintaining open channels for communication and keeping international partners informed about substantive steps toward reducing tensions. The dialogue reflected a shared sense of responsibility to pursue dialogue, reduce hostilities, and promote stability in the region. As observers noted, the exchange signaled a continuing Turkish interest in serving as a bridge between Moscow and Kyiv, with Ankara seeking practical means to advance peace talks while supporting responsible, verifiable actions on the ground.
Analysts view the interaction as part of a broader strategic dynamic in which Turkey positions itself as a regional interlocutor capable of facilitating complex negotiations. The discussion also highlighted the practical complexities of sustaining grain and fertilizer flows during times of dispute, with both sides recognizing the importance of predictable supplies for food security and agricultural planning in Turkey and beyond. The parties agreed to keep diplomatic channels open and to pursue additional discussions that could translate into tangible steps on economic collaboration, humanitarian assistance, and negotiated settlement processes.
In summary, the Putin-Erdogan call reinforced Ankara’s stance on peaceful resolution through dialogue, confirmed Turkish willingness to support fertilizer shipments from Russia, and affirmed interest in mediating or supporting negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv. The conversation demonstrated the continuing push from both capitals toward a stable, rules-based regional order and a path to reducing the human and economic toll of the conflict.