The key facts

  • Erdogan: attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea could intensify escalation and 'serve no one's interests'
  • Zelensky arrived in Istanbul on a working visit on Saturday; Black Sea security was discussed
  • Ankara declared its readiness to 'make every possible effort' for peace, and Turkish companies will remain in Ukraine's reconstruction

Warning of escalation in the Black Sea

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday, at a joint press conference with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, that attacks on civilian vessels could further heighten tensions in the Black Sea, which, in his words, 'serves no one's interests'. The Anadolu agency reported this.

What was discussed in Istanbul

Zelensky arrived in Istanbul on Saturday on a working visit. According to Erdogan, the meeting addressed recent intensified efforts to ensure security in the Black Sea. The Turkish leader also expressed Ankara's readiness to 'make every possible effort to pave the way to peace' in Ukraine and noted that Turkish companies, which have remained in the country despite the war that began in 2022, will play a significant role in its reconstruction.