Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan revealed his desire to hold talks with Putin on extending grain trade in the Black Sea for at least three months, as it expires on July 17. This came in a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after they met to discuss the future of the deal. In this regard, Erdogan announced this
Vladimir Putin comes to Türkiye in August.
The two leaders also discussed the issue of prisoner exchange. The topic was reportedly high on their agenda, and both hoped for positive results soon. Zelensky declined to comment until the results were in, but confirmed it The talks included details about the return of all prisoners, including children deported to Russia and other groups.
Erdogan hinted at the possibility of discussing this issue with Putin, even before his visit.
The Kremlin has shown interest in the talks, acknowledging Erdogan’s mediation efforts in settling the conflict in Ukraine. Dmitry Peskov The Kremlin spokesman did not rule out any future contact between Putin and Erdogan regarding this issue.
Zelensky’s visit to Turkey is part of a larger tour that also includes stops in Bulgaria and the Czech Republic. The purpose of the tour is Urge NATO capitals to take final steps to grant Kiev membership at a summit scheduled for next week.
Erdogan expressed his support for Ukraine’s accession to NATO.
Source: Reuters
Cover image: Getty Images
