Zelensky in Ankara: Key talks amid Saudi peace efforts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is travelling to Ankara on Tuesday to meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This visit comes at a crucial time, as discussions between the US and Russia are scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia about ending the war. The meeting in Riyadh aims to rebuild bilateral relations and prepare for possible peace talks.

Turkey, which has previously offered to mediate in the Ukrainian conflict, is once again emphasising its readiness to act for peace. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasised that both Europe and Turkey should participate in the negotiations. He also stressed the need for a ceasefire and the creation of a long-term peace plan.

Zelensky has visited Turkey twice since the start of Russia's aggression in Ukraine, the last time being in March 2024. His current visit to Ankara coincides with the talks in Riyadh, which include participation from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Authorities in Kyiv and the European Union have not been invited to these negotiations.

Zelensky will also visit Saudi Arabia. The Ukrainian president is expected in Riyadh on Wednesday, not as previously announced on Tuesday.