A Turkish diplomatic source has reported that Turkey is expected to reaffirm its strong and ongoing support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Istanbul today, Friday. The Turkish presidency stated that Zelensky will hold discussions with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan concerning the developments in the war between Russia and Ukraine, the Black Sea grain deal, and bilateral relations in a meeting scheduled for 1600 GMT. It is unclear if a press conference will be held. The source noted, "Turkey is set to announce its continued efforts to end the war as soon as possible through negotiations."
Additionally, among the agenda items is the development of a new arrangement for the safe passage of commercial ships between Russia and Ukraine following the termination of the grain deal. Last July, Russia withdrew from the agreement that permitted the export of grain from Ukrainian ports on the Black Sea, stating that its demands for better terms regarding the export of food and fertilizers were being ignored.
Ankara is attempting to persuade Moscow to return to the agreement mediated by Turkey and the United Nations, but Russia claims it is not interested in reviving it. Turkey, a NATO member, shares maritime borders with both Ukraine and Russia in the Black Sea and has sought to maintain friendly relations with both during the war. It has provided military support to Kyiv, while simultaneously opposing sanctions imposed on Moscow. The source added, "When peace returns to Ukraine, we aim to continue providing strong support for the country's reconstruction efforts based on our strategic partnership."
