Türkiye and Russia Reaffirm Commitment to Syria’s Sovereignty and Renew Push for Ukraine Peace Talks
Moscow, The Gulf Observer: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed their countries’ joint commitment to upholding Syria’s territorial integrity and promoting lasting regional stability during high-level talks held in Moscow.
Speaking at a joint press conference following their meeting, Minister Fidan stated, “As Türkiye and Russia, we will continue to work together to ensure that the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Syria is protected.” He emphasized both nations’ resolve to support Syria’s long-term peace and prosperity, underlining their shared responsibility in the region. “We will intensify our efforts, making sure that the Syrian people achieve prosperity and stability,” he added.
The two top diplomats also voiced their readiness to facilitate the resumption of peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, with both leaders expressing appreciation for Türkiye’s role as a trusted mediator. Lavrov referred to Türkiye as a “promising venue” for dialogue, and called for a renewed diplomatic track: “We can once again appeal to our Turkish friends for the second round of negotiations with Ukraine.”
Foreign Minister Fidan echoed Lavrov’s remarks and reiterated Türkiye’s openness to hosting future talks. He highlighted the strategic importance of ending the conflict: “We live in the same geography… Ending this war permanently is our shared goal, and Türkiye will continue to support efforts toward that end.”
Türkiye had previously hosted the first direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in three years, held in Istanbul on May 16. Those talks resulted in an agreement for a large-scale exchange of prisoners — 1,000 from each side — and a decision to continue truce negotiations.
During his visit to Moscow from May 26–27, Minister Fidan was received by Russian President Vladimir Putin and held discussions with several senior officials, including Vladimir Medinsky, the Russian presidential aide who led Moscow’s delegation in the Istanbul negotiations.
On the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Fidan delivered a stark warning, condemning Israel’s actions and cautioning against further escalation. “The genocide in Gaza must stop at once,” he said. “Otherwise, a chaos that can engulf Israel will be unstoppable.” Lavrov affirmed Russia’s alignment with Türkiye on the issue, stating, “We have common views with Türkiye on Palestine. What is happening in Gaza and the West Bank is unacceptable.”
The visit marks another chapter in the close diplomatic engagement between Türkiye and Russia, highlighting their joint efforts in conflict mediation, regional security, and humanitarian issues across multiple fronts.
