Zelensky Meets Erdoğan in Istanbul for Talks on Peace and Bilateral Ties

Volodymyr Zelensky met with Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Istanbul on Saturday for high-level talks focused on ongoing efforts to achieve peace between Ukraine and Russia, as well as strengthening bilateral relations between Türkiye and Ukraine.

The meeting, held at the Dolmabahce Presidential Office, took place behind closed doors and lasted for over an hour. According to official statements from Türkiye’s Presidency Directorate of Communications, the discussions covered a wide range of topics, including peace initiatives related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, regional developments, and global geopolitical concerns.

During the talks, Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye’s continued support for diplomatic negotiations aimed at ending the conflict and emphasized the urgent need for peace and stability in the region. Türkiye has consistently positioned itself as a mediator in the conflict, facilitating dialogue between the two sides through diplomatic channels such as the “Istanbul Process,” which is designed to encourage direct negotiations toward a lasting resolution.

In addition to peace efforts, the leaders discussed key areas of cooperation between the two countries. These included enhancing bilateral trade relations and exploring strategic steps to increase economic engagement. Erdoğan also highlighted the importance of maritime safety in the Black Sea, underlining its role in maintaining regional security and ensuring uninterrupted energy supply routes.

The meeting further reflected Türkiye’s broader diplomatic approach of maintaining balanced relations with both Ukraine and Russia while actively supporting international efforts toward conflict resolution. Both leaders also acknowledged the importance of strengthening partnerships with the international community to address ongoing challenges and promote stability.

The discussions in Istanbul mark another step in continued diplomatic engagement between Türkiye and Ukraine, reinforcing Türkiye’s role as an active intermediary in one of the world’s most closely watched conflicts.