Political analyst Sergei Stankevich appeared on the TV channel 360 to discuss a developing topic surrounding possible diplomatic moves. Speculators have suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could hold a face-to-face meeting in April. These talks came up in connection with a proposal reportedly advanced by Turkish authorities. Stankevich noted that Erdogan is currently grappling with the aftermath of a powerful earthquake sequence, which may complicate any ambitious diplomatic gambits. According to him, while Ankara may want to project strength on the international stage by advancing dialogue with Moscow and Kyiv, the likelihood of bringing Putin and Zelensky together in the near term remains uncertain.
Stankevich emphasized that the next months will test Erdogan’s ability to balance regional security concerns, domestic pressures, and international visibility. He argued that for Erdogan, demonstrating leadership and credibility on the global scene is a priority, and that pursuing high-profile dialogue could be one way to bolster that image. Nonetheless, the political analyst cautioned that a Putin–Zelensky meeting within the coming months should not be counted on, given the current geopolitical climate and Turkey’s own domestic and regional constraints. (Citation: statements attributed to the political analyst and Turkish regional observers)
According to Stankevich, the two leaders of Russia and Ukraine are unlikely to engage in direct contact in the near term, with observers pointing to a complex mix of security concerns, military operations, and international mediation efforts shaping the agenda. The assessment reflects a broader trend in which major powers weigh the strategic costs and benefits of high-level conversations amid ongoing tensions and competing narratives from various regional actors. (Citation: regional political commentary)
Previously, a member of the Security and Foreign Policy Council under the Turkish president indicated that Erdogan hoped to arrange a meeting between Putin and Zelensky in Istanbul during April. This assertion underscores Ankara’s appetite for diplomatic breakthroughs, even as the surrounding uncertainties—ranging from earthquake relief priorities to Western alliance dynamics—continue to influence the tempo and tone of possible talks. (Citation: Turkish official commentary)