Turkey Pledges Support for Ukraine Negotiations, Black Sea Safety

Erdogan says Turkey will continue to play a role in the diplomatic process to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 6:19pm

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that Turkey will continue to support the negotiation process aimed at resolving the situation in Ukraine. Erdogan also emphasized the importance Turkey places on ensuring the safety of navigation in the Black Sea.

Why it matters

As a NATO member bordering the Black Sea, Turkey has sought to maintain a delicate balance in its relations with both Ukraine and Russia since the start of the conflict. Erdogan's comments signal Turkey's continued commitment to diplomatic efforts to end the war, while also highlighting its strategic interest in preserving stability and freedom of movement in the Black Sea.

The details

Erdogan's remarks came during a meeting in Istanbul with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations between Turkey and Ukraine, as well as ways to achieve peace in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia. They also touched on regional and global developments.

  • The meeting between Erdogan and Zelenskyy took place on April 4, 2026.

The players

Recep Tayyip Erdogan

The current President of Turkey, who has sought to mediate between Ukraine and Russia since the start of the conflict.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The President of Ukraine, who met with Erdogan in Istanbul to discuss the ongoing war and diplomatic efforts to end it.

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What they’re saying

“Turkey will continue to support the negotiation process on settling the situation in Ukraine and attaches great importance to the safety of navigation in the Black Sea.”

— Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of Turkey

The takeaway

Turkey's continued involvement in diplomatic efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict underscores its strategic position as a NATO member with close ties to both sides. Erdogan's emphasis on Black Sea security also highlights Turkey's broader regional interests and its role as a key player in the geopolitics of the wider area.