Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to Turkey for its cooperation with Kyiv, stating that he discussed with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan the future of bilateral defense partnership, and that technical teams will begin work on the agreed-upon issues.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Zelenskyy noted at a press conference that the diplomatic situation was reviewed in detail, explaining that negotiation tracks are becoming more active with the goal of achieving a just peace and strengthening security. He emphasized that there is no alternative to peace and that Russia must understand that war and killing cannot be rewarded, and it must be prevented from launching a similar war in the region again.

The Ukrainian president underscored the importance of security guarantees and Turkey's role in this regard, expressing strong confidence in Turkish diplomacy and its ability to be understood in Moscow. He also highlighted the significance of Turkey's participation in the 'Coalition of the Willing,' particularly in the military maritime dimension, given the strategic importance of Black Sea security.

Regarding prisoner-exchange efforts, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is working to bring back its soldiers and civilians, including political and religious detainees from the Crimean Tatars, as well as abducted Ukrainian children. He added that Ukraine has established platforms in Turkey dedicated to this issue.

He concluded by noting that more than 2,000 Ukrainian soldiers have returned, or are on their way home, thanks to negotiations held in Istanbul, emphasizing the need to accelerate diplomatic efforts to achieve further progress.