Türkiye's FM hints at consequences for Russia if it 'fails to show flexibility' in peace talks
Photo: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (Getty Images)
Russia may find itself in a disadvantageous position in the eyes of the United States if it fails to show flexibility in peace negotiations with Ukraine, states Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, according to Anadolu.
According to the agency, Fidan made several statements about peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia while on his way to Kyiv following a visit to Moscow.
In particular, he said that in Kyiv, he would discuss with Ukrainian authorities the urgent need for a ceasefire and present Türkiye’s position. Meetings are planned with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other officials.
“Both sides want a ceasefire, but they have different demands that need to be reconciled. That’s why negotiations and mediation are necessary,” the Turkish Foreign Minister noted.
According to him, all responsible countries must take steps and "put their hand on the ball." The United States and President Donald Trump also have an important role to play.
"Ukraine and Europe have shown flexibility in adapting to the US position. When Russia fails to demonstrate the same flexibility, it may find itself in a disadvantageous position in the eyes of the US," Fidan emphasized.
The minister added that Türkiye has the potential to perform many functions that can be considered mediation in this process, as "this is not something that can be achieved through the efforts of a single mediator."
Fidan’s visits to Moscow and Kyiv
On May 26–27, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan visited Russia. There, he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, and the head of Russia’s delegation for negotiations with Ukraine, Vladimir Medinsky.
Media reported that Fidan was expected to confirm his country’s readiness to act as a mediator in a new round of talks between Kyiv and Moscow.
It also became known yesterday that Russia proposed holding a second round of ceasefire negotiations with Ukraine on Monday, June 2, in Istanbul.
In addition, according to the Turkish Foreign Ministry, Fidan will visit Ukraine on May 29–30. Earlier, media outlets reported that the visit would last two days, although the agenda remained undisclosed.
