In a recent meeting in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude towards Türkiye for its diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. The meeting, which included Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, highlighted Türkiye’s active role in peace initiatives. Demonstrating appreciation, Zelenskyy awarded Fidan the Order of Merit, Second Class, acknowledging Türkiye’s contributions to the peace process.
Discussions during the meeting centered on the current diplomatic climate, the dynamics on the battlefield, and strategies to rejuvenate peace negotiations. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of Türkiye’s mediation efforts and expressed optimism for enhanced collaboration, particularly in the context of the newly ratified Ukraine-Türkiye Free Trade Agreement. This agreement underscores the strengthening ties between the two nations amidst the ongoing conflict.
Throughout the conflict, Türkiye has maintained a delicate balance, preserving relations with both Ukraine and Russia. It has previously played host to peace talks in Istanbul, facilitated prisoner exchanges, and supported the Black Sea grain initiative. The Turkish Foreign Minister reiterated the importance of the “Istanbul format” for negotiations, expressing Türkiye’s readiness to host future discussions aimed at achieving peace.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha added that President Zelenskyy is open to a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Türkiye, should the circumstances permit. This statement underscores the potential role Türkiye could play in facilitating high-level talks aimed at de-escalating the conflict.