Turkey advocates: Immediate start of ceasefire talks in Ukraine

During the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Fidan had a meeting with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, this past Friday. Their discussion covered various topics, with the situation in Ukraine being a primary focus. Fidan shared with journalists, "Regarding Ukraine, we believe that both parties have exhausted the benefits that can be derived from continuing the conflict. It's time to initiate talks aimed at achieving a ceasefire."

He clarified, "This approach does not equate to an acknowledgment of the occupation. Discussions about sovereignty and ceasefire must be conducted independently."

As a NATO member with a unique geographical position, sharing maritime borders with both Ukraine and Russia in the Black Sea, Turkey has strived to balance its relationships with both countries since the onset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine two years ago. While Ankara has extended military support to Ukraine and affirmed its commitment to Ukraine's territorial integrity, it has concurrently expressed opposition to imposing sanctions on Russia.

Fidan highlighted the severe human and infrastructural toll the conflict has exacted, stating, "The loss of over 500,000 lives, along with the total devastation of a country's infrastructure, is a situation we find intolerable. There must be an end to this destruction. Initiating dialogue is imperative, and all parties must be prepared for this reality."