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President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he held an extensive and in-depth meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to Ashgabat, where he attended events marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality and the U.N.-designated “International Year of Peace and Trust.”
Speaking to journalists aboard his return flight, Erdogan described the talks as productive and wide-ranging, with a strong focus on regional and global developments.
Erdogan said he conveyed to Putin that Türkiye is ready to host him at any time and emphasized the importance of holding the long-anticipated visit as soon as possible.
According to Erdogan, Putin responded positively, saying he would keep his word and indicating that the visit would take place in the near future.
Erdogan noted that Türkiye–Russia relations are built on a deep-rooted history, strong diplomatic foundations and mutual trust, adding that bilateral ties are not shaped by short-term or tactical considerations.
The Ukrainian war and related peace initiatives formed a central part of the discussions, Erdogan said, stressing that Türkiye believes the conflict should have ended long ago.
He said Türkiye’s position on the war is clearly known by all parties, including Russia, and that Ankara continues to call openly for an end to the fighting and for diplomacy to prevail.
Erdogan said U.S. President Donald Trump is actively involved in peace-related efforts and that Türkiye is encouraging continued engagement by Washington.
He added that Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan remains in close and continuous contact with U.S. counterparts, while Ankara also maintains dialogue with other relevant actors.
Erdogan said he expects to discuss peace plans with Trump in the near future and reiterated that Türkiye is ready to contribute in any way that helps advance a settlement.
Erdogan cautioned against turning the Black Sea into a zone of confrontation, stressing that such a development would harm both Russia and Ukraine.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Black Sea, saying all parties depend on stability in the region.
“Peace is not far,” Erdogan said, adding that choosing the right direction and prioritizing dialogue could help bring the conflict to an end.
Erdogan underlined Türkiye’s continued readiness to act as a facilitator for dialogue, recalling Ankara’s past efforts to bring the sides together and support confidence-building measures.
He said Türkiye will continue to pursue diplomacy, dialogue and mediation to help prevent further escalation and contribute to regional and global stability.
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