Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan arrived in Russia on Monday for a series of high-level diplomatic engagements, including a scheduled meeting with President Vladimir Putin, according to sources from the Turkish Foreign Ministry.

The visit underscores Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to maintain robust diplomatic and economic ties with Russia while navigating its role as a NATO member and mediator in regional conflicts.

Fidan’s itinerary includes discussions with key Russian officials. On Monday, he is expected to meet with Vladimir Medinsky, an adviser to President Putin, and Sergey Naryshkin, director of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service. In addition to these government meetings, Fidan will participate in a session with the board of directors of the Russian-Turkish Business Council, highlighting the economic dimension of Türkiye-Russia relations.

On Tuesday, May 27, Fidan will hold talks with his Russian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. The discussions are expected to cover a range of issues, including trade, energy, and regional security, amid the complex geopolitical landscape shaped by Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, which began in 2022.

Türkiye has maintained a delicate balancing act in its foreign policy, preserving close ties with Russia despite international sanctions imposed on Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine. At the same time, Ankara has upheld its commitments as a NATO member and fostered relationships with Western partners. Türkiye has also positioned itself as a mediator in regional conflicts, including facilitating dialogue between Russia and Ukraine and playing a role in Black Sea grain export agreements.

Fidan’s visit to Russia comes at a time of heightened global attention on Türkiye’s diplomatic maneuvering, as it seeks to maintain strategic partnerships while addressing regional challenges. The outcomes of these meetings could further shape Türkiye’s role as a key player in international diplomacy. (ILKHA)