Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that Turkey will persist in its efforts to establish a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. This announcement was made through a video message sent to the 4th Summit of the Leaders of the Crimean Platform, coinciding with the third anniversary of the Russian-Ukrainian war.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Erdogan emphasized Turkey’s consistent support for Ukraine since the annexation of Crimea in 2014, aligning with international law principles. He underscored Turkey’s stance against the Russian-Ukrainian war, which has remained unchanged since its inception three years ago. Erdogan stated Turkey’s commitment to facilitating negotiations aimed at ending the conflict, while upholding Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence.
Erdogan highlighted the growing momentum towards diplomacy, dialogue, and negotiations as viable solutions for the conflict as it enters its fourth year. He expressed hope that this diplomatic approach would pave the way for ending hostilities and establishing lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine. The Turkish president also mentioned his recent discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ankara, where they explored Turkey’s potential contributions to Ukraine, describing the current situation as a critical juncture.
Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s willingness to host negotiations between Russia and Ukraine to resolve the conflict. He emphasized the importance of celebrating peace rather than war anniversaries next year and reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to working tirelessly for a just and lasting peace. Erdogan concluded his message with the aspiration that 2025 would be marked by peace.
The Crimean Platform, launched by Ukraine in 2021, serves as an international forum for solidarity and coordination to increase pressure on Russia and advocate for Crimea’s restoration. Notably, Russia’s military attack on Ukraine began in 2022, with demands for Ukraine to abandon joining Western military alliances, which Kiev views as interference in its affairs.