What Happened During the Meeting of Turkish and Ukrainian FMs Ahead of Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks?

Synopsis
In a pivotal meeting in Antalya, Turkish FM Hakan Fidan and Ukrainian FM Andrii Sybiha discussed strategies for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. With significant developments ahead, their collaboration symbolizes a crucial step towards restoring stability in the region. Stay tuned for the unfolding peace process.
Key Takeaways
- Turkey is positioned as a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- Ukrainian FM Sybiha emphasized Ukraine's commitment to a ceasefire.
- The upcoming talks in Istanbul mark a potential turning point.
- International pressure for a ceasefire is mounting.
- The involvement of major leaders highlights the global interest in the peace process.
Ankara, May 15 (NationPress) Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan engaged with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha in the city of Antalya, Turkey, as they prepare for the upcoming Russia-Ukraine peace discussions set to occur in Istanbul.
As reported by Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency, Fidan conveyed to Sybiha on Wednesday that Turkey stands ready to extend comprehensive support, including facilitating dialogue, to foster peace.
Following their discussions, Sybiha posted on the social media platform X that he and Fidan extensively explored avenues to propel a “meaningful peace process”.
“I reaffirmed Ukraine's commitment to peace, our immediate and unconditional readiness for a full and durable ceasefire, as well as our offer of the highest-level direct meeting between Ukraine and Russia,” he stated.
The meeting also addressed preparations for an anticipated visit to Turkey by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Last Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested resuming direct negotiations with Ukraine on May 15 in Istanbul. On the same day, President Zelensky expressed his willingness to meet with Putin in Istanbul.
Earlier on Wednesday, Russian Presidential aide Yuri Ushakov indicated that the Russian delegation would tackle political and technical matters in the forthcoming talks, with the agenda shaping the delegation's composition.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan spoke on Monday regarding Kremlin leader Putin's initiative for direct Russian-Ukrainian discussions this week in Turkey, as reported by Reuters, citing the Russian Ministry.
“The heads of the two Ministries discussed issues linked with the initiative by Russian Federation President V.V. Putin about beginning direct talks on a Ukrainian settlement on May 15 in Istanbul,” the Ministry stated.
A Turkish diplomatic source previously noted that the two Ministers had communicated but did not provide additional details.
Putin proposed the talks over the weekend following a meeting of European leaders in Kyiv who urged Russia to accept a 30-day ceasefire in its conflict with Ukraine by Monday or risk new sanctions.
On Monday, US President Donald Trump offered to participate in the anticipated Ukraine-Russia discussions in Turkey.