Erdogan backs inclusive peace talks on Ukraine in call with Putin

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has once again stepped into the spotlight of international diplomacy by urging inclusive peace talks on the war in Ukraine. In his recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Erdogan highlighted that the only way forward is through talks that include not just Russia and Ukraine, but also other global players who can contribute to peace. His message was clear: without inclusivity, no peace deal will last.

Erdogan’s balanced role between Russia and Ukraine

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Erdogan has positioned Turkey as a middle-ground country. On one hand, Turkey is a NATO member and supports Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence. On the other hand, it has strong trade, energy, and political ties with Russia. This balance has allowed Turkey to remain in touch with both sides when many other countries could not.

Because of this position, Erdogan has been able to act as a mediator. One of the most important examples was the Black Sea grain deal, which Turkey helped to negotiate. That agreement allowed Ukraine to export grain through the Black Sea despite the war, preventing a global food crisis. Erdogan sees this success as proof that diplomacy can work even in the middle of conflict.

Why Erdogan stresses inclusive peace talks

In his call with Putin, Erdogan underlined the idea of “inclusive” peace talks. This means that the discussions should not be limited to Russia and Ukraine alone. Instead, other countries, international organizations, and stakeholders should also have a voice. According to Erdogan, involving more actors would make the process fairer and more effective.

For Turkey, inclusivity also ensures that peace is not temporary. A deal signed only between Moscow and Kyiv might not be enough to stop future tensions. But a broader agreement, supported by many, would carry more weight and be harder to break. Erdogan’s approach shows his belief that peace requires wide participation and trust.

Turkey’s growing international role

Erdogan’s involvement in the Ukraine crisis is also part of a bigger picture. Turkey has been trying to expand its role in global politics. By positioning itself as a bridge between East and West, Ankara gains influence. For Russia, Turkey remains a partner that has not fully joined Western sanctions. For Ukraine and the West, Turkey is one of the few countries able to maintain direct communication with Moscow.

This special role increases Turkey’s importance on the world stage. Erdogan uses this to show that Turkey can be more than a regional power it can be a global mediator. His frequent talks with leaders like Putin highlight how much weight Ankara carries in current international affairs.

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