NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte held a phone conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Tuesday, shortly after concluding his summit with U.S. and European Union leaders.

The two leaders focused on the ongoing Ukraine–Russia peace process and the broader security architecture of the Black Sea region.

According to a statement from Ankara, the call underlined Türkiye’s pivotal role as both a NATO member and a regional power in mediating between Moscow and Kyiv. President Erdoğan and Secretary General Rutte agreed that Ankara’s diplomatic initiatives, particularly its earlier mediation efforts on grain exports and ceasefire negotiations, remain central to any viable peace framework.

The two leaders also emphasized that the Black Sea’s security is a matter of collective importance for NATO, with Türkiye positioned as a frontline state ensuring stability in the region. They agreed to maintain close coordination within NATO to protect shipping routes and prevent escalation.

In addition to discussions on Ukraine, Erdoğan and Rutte exchanged views on possible sustainable security guarantees, both for Kyiv’s long-term protection and for ensuring stability in Eastern Europe. The talks reportedly explored “viable and balanced solutions” that could address the concerns of all parties without undermining regional equilibrium.

Diplomatic observers note that the call highlights NATO’s recognition of Türkiye as a bridge between the West and Russia, with its unique ability to engage both sides. Erdoğan has consistently maintained that Türkiye will continue to support diplomatic efforts, while safeguarding its national interests and its role as a guarantor of regional stability.

The conversation comes at a time when NATO allies are seeking to unify their approach to the Ukraine war, balancing deterrence against Russia with efforts to keep channels of negotiation open. (ILKHA)