Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reiterated his commitment to helping set up a direct meeting between Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky. Speaking to reporters, Erdogan emphasized that he remains engaged with both leaders and is pursuing channels that could bring the two sides to the negotiating table. He stressed that Ankara is actively exploring opportunities for dialogue, underscoring the potential for Turkey to serve as a mediator in the diplomatic process.
In parallel, former Turkish Foreign Minister Hikmet Cetin urged Ankara to adopt a more proactive role in bridging the gap between Moscow and Kyiv. Cetin argued that a ceasefire and durable peace would require both sides to join talks, with Turkey using its diplomatic influence to facilitate a constructive discussion between the two capitals.
According to Cetin, the path to ending hostilities lies in negotiation rather than continued fighting. His comments align with a broader international call for restraint and a renewed focus on diplomacy as a means to resolve the crisis that has affected the region for years.
Erdogan reiterated that Turkey has the potential to act as a middleman in this complicated conflict. He noted that his government maintains ongoing communications with both Zelensky and Putin, a setup that could help lower barriers and create a conducive environment for talks. The Turkish president highlighted Ankara’s willingness to contribute to a mediated process that could lead to a durable settlement and a halt to violence in the area.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently weighed in on the situation, urging both Ukraine and Russia to reach a political agreement. Trump argued that the oscillation of conflict should end swiftly and emphasized that dialogue must begin soon. He stated that the loss of lives and the destruction caused by ongoing fighting should be halted without delay, calling for a tangible move toward diplomacy and negotiation as quickly as possible.
While the international community continues to monitor the evolving situation, the focus remains on whether Russia and Ukraine can open a direct line of communication with a neutral mediator available to facilitate the process. Erdogan’s repeated offers and Cetin’s calls for greater Turkish involvement reflect a wider belief among several policymakers that a negotiated settlement is preferable to prolonged confrontation. The outcome of these discussions could shape the next phase of the conflict and influence regional stability in the near term, with Turkey positioned as a pivotal stakeholder in any tentative steps toward peace.