Turkey should be included in Russia-Ukraine war talks, Zelensky says

During his visit to Ankara on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated that Turkey and European countries must participate in negotiations and security guarantees to end the war with Russia. He emphasized the importance of multilateral involvement, aiming to ensure the fairness and effectiveness of the negotiations.

Speaking at a press conference with Turkish President Erdogan, Zelenskyy said, "Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, as well as the United States, should all be included in the talks and security guarantees." He added, "The negotiations must be fair, and this can only work if all relevant countries are involved. No one should be left out." This indicates Ukraine's desire to establish a broader international coalition to support its position.

Zelenskyy's visit to Turkey coincided with talks between the United States and Russia in Saudi Arabia, from which Ukraine and the EU were excluded. Since taking office, US President Trump and members of his administration, including Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, have indicated that Washington will negotiate with Moscow without EU involvement. Washington will also continue to link financial and military assistance to Ukraine with access to Ukrainian raw materials, particularly rare earth elements.

Erdogan reiterated at the press conference that Ankara fully supports Ukraine's territorial integrity and independence, calling them "indispensable" conditions for achieving lasting peace in the region. Erdogan added that Turkey remains willing to host negotiations and assist in reaching an agreement. However, he did not commit Turkey to participating in peacekeeping missions or providing security guarantees. Zelenskyy noted that he had discussed the issue with Erdogan, and they jointly decided that it was premature to make any commitments regarding security guarantees at this stage.

Zelenskyy also expressed frustration with the US-Russia talks in Riyadh, saying he only learned about the meeting through news reports. He said, "I don't know who participated in these talks, and I don't care. We are completely transparent in everything we do." He added, "I decided not to travel to Saudi Arabia, and I don't hide it. I have already spoken with my Saudi counterparts. The new date for my visit is set for March 10th. As for the Americans, we are waiting for them in Kyiv." When asked if Kyiv might cede territory to Russia as part of a final peace agreement, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine would never recognize Donbas and other regions as Russian territory.