Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan held talks in Ankara on Tuesday with Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, as part of Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to contribute to a resolution of the Russia–Ukraine war.

According to diplomatic sources, the meeting focused on the latest developments on the battlefield, regional security dynamics in the Black Sea, and prospects for reviving diplomatic channels aimed at de-escalation. While no detailed readout was officially released, the talks underscored Ankara’s continued engagement with Kyiv at a critical stage of the conflict, which is now approaching its fourth year.

Türkiye has maintained a policy of active diplomacy since the outbreak of the war, keeping communication lines open with both Ukraine and Russia. Foreign Minister Fidan reiterated Ankara’s position that a negotiated settlement remains the only sustainable path to peace and emphasized Türkiye’s readiness to facilitate dialogue whenever conditions allow.

Discussions are understood to have also touched on maritime security in the Black Sea, the future of grain exports, and humanitarian concerns, including prisoner exchanges and civilian protection. Türkiye previously played a central role in brokering the Black Sea Grain Initiative and has hosted several rounds of talks between the warring parties since 2022.

Umerov, a key figure in Ukraine’s security architecture, reportedly briefed the Turkish side on Kyiv’s current security priorities and expectations from international partners. The meeting also reflected the broader framework of Turkish-Ukrainian relations, which include cooperation in defense industries, trade, and regional security.

Ankara continues to present itself as a neutral and credible mediator, balancing its ties with Moscow and Kyiv while advocating for a ceasefire and renewed negotiations. Turkish officials have repeatedly stressed that prolongation of the war risks further destabilizing the wider region, particularly the Black Sea basin.

The meeting in Ankara comes amid intensified diplomatic activity by Türkiye, as it seeks to reassert its role in peace initiatives and confidence-building measures related to one of Europe’s most protracted and destabilizing conflicts. (ILKHA)