Zelensky, Erdogan Discuss Peace Talks and Black Sea Security

President Volodymyr Zelensky and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan convened in Istanbul on October 31 to discuss peace talks and Black Sea security matters. During the bilateral discussions, the leaders aimed to revive tripartite diplomatic negotiations to end the war, secure safe navigation across the Black Sea, and explore the possibility of hosting future peace talks in Turkey.

Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine is actively preparing for a trilateral format involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia in early November, while Erdogan affirmed Turkey's willingness to facilitate a diplomatic settlement and host potential peace talks. The Istanbul summit came amid rising instability in the Black Sea following drone strikes on commercial cargo ships near Romanian and Bulgarian territorial waters.

Erdogan condemned these strikes, urging all parties to avoid further escalation. Zelensky emphasized Russia's prolonged maritime aggression since the annexation of Crimea, while discussing the restoration of normal living conditions in the Black Sea region. The leaders also reviewed the ongoing operation of Ukrainian agricultural export corridors and bilateral economic cooperation.

The meeting followed a recent telephone conversation between Erdogan and US President Donald Trump, in which the Turkish leader reaffirmed Ankara's readiness to assist in reviving diplomatic talks between Ukraine and Russia. International mediators are currently exploring venues for prospective trilateral talks, with Abu Dhabi, Switzerland, and Turkey identified as potential host locations.