Kremlin declines to comment on reports of Russia-Ukraine talks in Ankara

The Kremlin on Monday said it could not confirm reports from the media regarding possible negotiations between Russia and Ukraine to be held in Ankara on April 15–16.

Russian Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov responded to questions from journalists, stating, “I can’t comment on that in any way. I don’t quite understand what was discussed in those Turkish media reports, what they were referring to. So I can’t confirm this.”

Turkish Defense Ministry announces maritime security meeting

Turkish media reported on Sunday that Ankara would host Russia-Ukraine discussions on April 15–16, focusing on the safety of navigation in the Black Sea.

The Turkish Ministry of National Defense (MoD) sources later confirmed a meeting would be held at the Naval Forces Command Headquarters in Ankara on those dates.

The MoD stated that the event would involve military representatives from various foreign countries and would focus on naval strategies to maintain peace in the Black Sea, particularly in the event of a potential ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.

Türkiye’s mediation role in past talks

In March 2022, Türkiye hosted the first direct talks between Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers in the city of Antalya.

That initiative led to the Black Sea Grain Deal, brokered later in 2022, allowing Ukraine to safely export agricultural products through the Black Sea.

Moscow exited the agreement in July 2023, citing continued restrictions on Russian agricultural exports.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to peace in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, stating, “(On the Russia-Ukraine war) Our President has a very strong will to contribute to peace in every possible way,” and that Türkiye is continuing its work on the issue.

Fidan underlined that the situation is not only Türkiye’s concern but a global issue, saying, “This is a global problem, not just Türkiye’s. That’s why many actors are involved, but Türkiye possesses rare qualities.”

He pointed to Ankara’s ability to maintain relations with both sides: “We want to use our relationship with both parties and the nature of that relationship to contribute to peace.”

Reiterating Türkiye’s active role in peace diplomacy, Fidan said, “Türkiye is involved in many activities for peace. If the parties wish to meet in Türkiye, our doors are always open. As long as there is peace.”