Erdogan expected to discuss Ukraine conflict with Putin in phone call
President Erdogan (L) shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) as they meet on the occasion of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia on Oct. 23, 2024 (AA Photo)
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to hold a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin this week to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, according to a report from the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet’s columnist, citing unnamed sources.
The anticipated call follows Erdogan’s phone discussion with U.S. President Donald Trump on March 16, during which they reportedly addressed efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict and the possibility of peace negotiations.
Russian and Turkish Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan not scheduled for talks this week, says Russian leader’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Also Putin has a valid invitation to visit Türkiye, but specific dates have not been agreed upon yet, Peskov added.
Diplomatic efforts on Ukraine
Erdogan’s administration has expressed support for Washington’s efforts to mediate the Ukraine conflict. According to the media reports, Ankara was satisfied with the outcome of the talks between Erdogan and Trump.
In a separate development, Putin and Trump held a confirmed phone call on March 18, discussing Ukraine and bilateral economic cooperation.
Both Moscow and Washington described the conversation as productive.
Upcoming diplomatic meetings
Following Putin and Trump’s discussion, White House special representative Steve Witkoff stated that further negotiations were set to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on March 23, focusing on the details of agreements reached during the leaders’ calls.
Meanwhile, Turkish media had previously speculated about a possible visit by Erdogan to the United States in April.
However, Hurriyet reported that no confirmation has been given regarding such a trip.
Ankara’s position on the conflict
During his call with Trump, Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to a fair and lasting peace in Ukraine.
He emphasized that global developments necessitate intensified consultations between Ankara and Washington.
As diplomatic talks continue, Ankara’s role in mediating discussions between key global players remains a focal point. Erdogan’s potential phone call with Putin is expected to further shape the direction of Türkiye’s involvement in the crisis.
