Just, lasting peace in Ukraine possible, Erdogan tells NATO’s Rutte

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed optimism about achieving a just and lasting peace in the Ukraine war during a phone call with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Tuesday, according to a statement from Türkiye’s Communications Directorate.

During the call, in which President Erdogan and Rutte discussed regional and global issues, Erdogan said Türkiye has been doing its utmost to end the three-year-long war between Ukraine and Russia, and will continue to do its part in the future.

Stressing that he held contacts with many leaders and representatives of international organizations, including the belligerent parties, President Erdogan said his country has been exerting efforts to end wars in its region and in the world.

The international community should contribute to Ankara’s efforts to stop wars and build peace, he added.

Meanwhile, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between Türkiye and Ukraine.

Following the meeting Erdogan said Türkiye will be an ideal host for possible upcoming meetings between Russia, Ukraine and the U.S.