Erdogan holds phone call with Putin - Key questions discussed
Illustrative photo: Erdogan held a phone call with Putin (1kremlin.ru)
Ankara continues to position itself as a mediator in efforts to achieve lasting peace between Ukraine and Russia. The latest conversation between the leaders of Türkiye and Russia marked another step in diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions and seeking compromise solutions, according to a publication from the Directorate of Communications of the Turkish Presidency.
On Tuesday, October 7, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a phone conversation with Vladimir Putin. During the discussion, Erdoğan emphasized the need to accelerate diplomatic initiatives that could bring an end to the war between Ukraine and Russia under conditions of a just and lasting peace.
"President Erdoğan stated that diplomatic initiatives must gain momentum to ensure the conclusion of the Russia-Ukraine war through a just and lasting peace, and that Türkiye will continue working toward that goal," the official readout said.
Regional and international issues
Beyond the Ukraine conflict, the two leaders also discussed other pressing global topics. Erdoğan informed Putin that Ankara is taking steps to establish a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. The agenda also included bilateral relations between Türkiye and Russia, particularly trade and energy cooperation.
The Turkish president personally congratulated Vladimir Putin on his birthday, underscoring the personal and diplomatic tone of their communication. Analysts note that Ankara continues to play the role of mediator between the West and Moscow, seeking to strengthen its international standing through balanced engagement with both sides of the conflict.
Context
US President Donald Trump has reportedly pushed for Türkiye to halt purchases of Russian oil, offering in exchange the possibility of reinstating Ankara into the F-35 fighter jet program, from which it had been previously suspended.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan maintains working relations with both Kyiv and Moscow, and analysts believe his position could prove pivotal in advancing peace initiatives, especially if Ankara decides to reduce or end its dependence on Russian energy supplies.
