Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s strategic visit to Moscow reinforces Turkey’s role as a balancing power and constructive mediator in the face of growing global instability.
Turkey Reaffirms Its Role as Mediator in Ukraine Crisis
In his high-level meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Hakan Fidan stressed Turkey’s continued commitment to diplomacy in resolving the war in Ukraine. Ankara once again offered to host direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, recalling its past facilitation of ceasefire talks and prisoner exchanges.
Fidan underscored Ankara’s enduring commitment to peace in Ukraine.
“We are ready to host negotiations once again and provide every form of support for a diplomatic settlement,”
“War benefits no one. The longer it drags on, the more damage it brings to all involved — and to the region at large.”
Fidan also reiterated that Turkey would maintain its open channels with both Moscow and Kyiv, calling dialogue the only path to sustainable peace.
“We believe this war will not end on the battlefield, but at the negotiation table.”
Turkey has maintained dialogue with both Kyiv and Moscow since the beginning of the conflict, positioning itself as a rare NATO member capable of direct communication with both sides.
Strategic Energy Partnership and Akkuyu Nuclear Plant
Energy remained at the heart of bilateral talks. The future of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, currently under construction with Russian cooperation, was a major point of discussion.
“We expect the first unit of Akkuyu to be operational soon. This is a strategic project for both our countries,” Fidan noted.
He also raised concerns about technical and financial challenges still facing the plant’s development, asking for increased coordination and clarity.
Lavrov emphasized that Russia is committed to completing the plant as agreed.
“Our cooperation in energy is long-term and strategic. Akkuyu is a symbol of that partnership.”
Both sides also explored new arrangements in gas trade and potential local currency settlements between BOTAŞ and Gazprom.
A Path Toward Renewing the Black Sea Grain Deal
Turkey pushed for the revival of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which played a key role in easing global food supply issues before collapsing in 2023.
“This issue has consequences far beyond our region. Millions of people depend on this corridor for food security,” Fidan warned.
He stressed that Turkey is ready to mediate a new arrangement that takes into account Russia’s demands as well as Ukraine’s logistical needs.
“We believe that a revised and balanced grain agreement is not only possible but urgently necessary.”
Lavrov responded by repeating Russia’s conditions:
“We will return to the grain deal once our own commitments under the UN memorandum are respected.”
Common Ground on Syria and Counterterrorism
The Syrian conflict and security on Turkey’s southern border were also key topics. Fidan made Ankara’s position clear:
“It is out of the question for us to tolerate terrorist structures taking root across our border.”
He insisted that Turkey will not allow the PKK/YPG to exploit the power vacuum in northern Syria and called for joint efforts to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity.
Lavrov acknowledged Turkey’s concerns, stating:
“Russia supports dialogue between Ankara and Damascus. We also believe in a Syria that is sovereign, unified, and free from terrorism.”
Discussions included pathways for refugee return and reconstruction, as well as continued coordination in the Astana peace process.
Turkey: A Rare Diplomatic Bridge
Fidan’s Moscow trip underscores Turkey’s unique position as a NATO member maintaining close ties with Russia, acting as a conduit for communication between conflicting parties.
“Turkey is not taking sides; Turkey is creating space for diplomacy,” Fidan concluded.
The visit is expected to be followed by a trip to Kyiv, reflecting Ankara’s carefully calibrated foreign policy that seeks peace without polarization.
