Kyiv: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has raised concerns over the potential extension of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict into the Black Sea region, emphasizing the necessity of regional stability and ongoing dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Fidan, in a joint press conference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha in Kyiv, highlighted the dangers posed by targeting ports, oil tankers, and fishing vessels, which endanger civilian lives in the Black Sea. He stressed that the threat of escalation remains significant, with developments jeopardizing Black Sea security. Fidan reiterated Turkey's stance against the war spreading to the Black Sea and called for all involved parties to act with wisdom and responsibility.

Fidan revealed that Turkey is exploring new strategies to break the current cycle of conflict, suggesting that the continuation of negotiations, particularly within the Istanbul talks framework, would be highly advantageous. The Istanbul format has previously facilitated direct dialogue between Russian and Ukrainian officials, enhancing transparency and productive negotiations. Despite ongoing military operations, Fidan underscored the importance of sustaining this negotiation track.

He further noted the involvement of American negotiators post-Istanbul talks and the ongoing risk of escalation. Fidan stressed that any potential peace agreement's cornerstone would be security guarantees for Kyiv, covering land, sea, and air components. Turkey's acceptance to lead the naval elements of these guarantees has been acknowledged, with planning in collaboration with allied naval forces underway.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha confirmed Ukraine's readiness for a ceasefire with Russia. He suggested that Turkey could serve as a venue for renewed negotiations or a possible meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, as part of broader efforts to achieve a resolution to the conflict.