Türkiye Hopes Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Negotiations Can Begin Soon

JAKARTA - Turkey hopes that ceasefire negotiations in Ukraine will start soon, said Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on the final day of the diplomatic forum in Antalya, Sunday.

Foreign Minister Fidan met with his Russian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Friday on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. He told reporters he had discussed a number of issues with Lavrov, including Ukraine.

"Regarding the Ukraine issue, our view is that both sides have reached the limit of what they can gain through war. We think it is time to start dialogue for a ceasefire," said Foreign Minister Fidan, as reported by Reuters on March 4.

"That does not mean recognizing the occupation (by Russia), but the issues of sovereignty and ceasefire must be discussed separately," he stressed.

NATO member Turkey, which has maritime borders with Ukraine and Russia on the Black Sea, has sought to maintain good relations with both countries since Russia's invasion of Ukraine two years ago.

Ankara has provided military support to Ukraine and voiced support for its territorial integrity, but has also opposed sanctions against Russia.

"The death and injury of more than 500,000 people and the total destruction of infrastructure and superstructure throughout the country is not a reality we can bear," said Foreign Minister Fidan.

"However, this must be stopped. To stop it, there must be discussion and everyone must get used to this idea," he stressed.