Türkiye urges continuation of Istanbul talks to prevent wider Russia-Ukraine conflict

Saturday 18 July 2026 - 19:00

By: Sahili Aya

Türkiye urges continuation of Istanbul talks to prevent wider Russia-Ukraine conflict

Türkiye has called for the continuation of the Istanbul talks framework aimed at addressing the Russia-Ukraine war, with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stressing the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels to help prevent further escalation.

Speaking during a joint press conference in Kyiv with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Fidan said Ankara believes that keeping the Türkiye-mediated negotiation process active would be beneficial for efforts to seek a resolution to the conflict.

Türkiye warns against expansion of fighting in Black Sea

Beyond diplomatic negotiations, Fidan expressed concern over the possibility of the war extending deeper into the Black Sea region.

“We do not want the war to be carried into the Black Sea,” the Turkish foreign minister said, warning that attacks affecting maritime infrastructure and civilian activity could create broader risks.

He specifically referred to potential strikes against ports, commercial vessels, tankers and fishing boats, arguing that actions threatening civilian lives cannot be justified.

Istanbul process remains a key diplomatic channel

Türkiye has positioned itself as a mediator between Moscow and Kyiv since the beginning of the conflict, hosting previous rounds of negotiations in Istanbul.

The talks have been viewed by Ankara as an important platform for maintaining communication between the two sides despite continued fighting.

Turkish officials have repeatedly emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions, particularly as military developments risk creating wider regional consequences.

Focus on protecting Black Sea stability

The Black Sea remains strategically important for Türkiye, Ukraine and Russia due to its role in trade routes, energy transportation and maritime security.

Ankara has consistently advocated avoiding further militarization of the region and limiting actions that could affect civilian navigation and economic activity.

Fidan’s latest comments underline Türkiye’s effort to balance its diplomatic relations with both Kyiv and Moscow while promoting stability in a strategically sensitive area.

Ankara continues mediation efforts

As the Russia-Ukraine war enters another phase, Türkiye continues to present itself as a potential facilitator for dialogue.

The Turkish government maintains that preserving negotiation mechanisms such as the Istanbul talks could help create conditions for future diplomatic progress and reduce the risk of the conflict spreading beyond existing front lines.