Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Presidential Complex in Ankara on Friday for critical bilateral discussions aimed at addressing the ongoing war in Ukraine and strengthening ties between the two nations.

The leaders, meeting during Zelenskyy’s working visit to Türkiye, exchanged warm greetings before introducing their delegations and retreating for closed-door talks. An expanded meeting between Turkish and Ukrainian officials followed, focusing on pressing regional and bilateral issues.

Diplomatic sources revealed that the agenda included the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, pathways to de-escalation, and efforts to secure a ceasefire. Discussions also reportedly covered regional security, Black Sea grain exports, and deepening economic cooperation between Ankara and Kyiv.

Türkiye, positioning itself as a mediator in the conflict, continues to balance relations with both Ukraine and Russia while advocating for peace. The visit underscores Ankara’s growing role in diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis and bolster its strategic partnership with Ukraine in defense, trade, and humanitarian aid.

No official statements were released immediately following the talks, but the meeting signals Türkiye’s commitment to fostering dialogue and stability in the region. (ILKHA)