Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is stepping onto the global stage with a renewed and determined push for peace between Ukraine and Russia, signaling a potential breakthrough in the protracted conflict. Fresh from a pivotal meeting with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, Erdogan expressed a palpable sense of optimism, confidently declaring that “peace is not far away.”
The high-stakes encounter took place in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, on December 12th. During their extensive talks, both leaders delved deeply into “comprehensive peace efforts,” with Turkey firmly reiterating its steadfast readiness to facilitate an end to the devastating war. But Erdogan’s diplomatic ambition doesn’t stop there; he’s looking across the Atlantic. He revealed plans to extend his discussions to former US President Donald Trump, hoping to collaboratively forge a robust path to peace that garners international support.
On his return flight, Erdogan outlined some of the key proposals he shared with Putin. A central idea was a limited ceasefire, specifically targeting crucial energy facilities and ports—points often hit during the conflict. He also passionately advocated for the demilitarization of the Black Sea, stating unequivocally that this vital waterway “should not be seen as a battleground.” Ensuring “safe navigation” for all vessels in the Black Sea, he stressed, is paramount for regional stability and global trade.
This determined pursuit of diplomacy unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing hostilities and complex challenges. In a stark reminder of the conflict’s continued impact, Russian forces attacked two Ukrainian ports on the very same day as the Erdogan-Putin meeting, damaging three Turkish-owned vessels, including a ship carrying vital food supplies. Despite such immediate provocations, Erdogan’s unwavering commitment to keeping channels of dialogue open remains a crucial beacon of hope. His efforts suggest that even amidst turmoil, a serious diplomatic resolution might indeed be on the horizon for Ukraine.
