Istanbul: Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus underscored Turkey’s commitment to facilitating a peaceful solution to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine during a statement made on Tuesday.
Kurtulmus emphasized Turkey’s longstanding advocacy for a “peaceful and equitable” resolution to the conflict, emphasizing its significance not only for the involved nations but also for the broader region.
“We know that ending the war between Russia and Ukraine, both of which are our neighbors and with which we have relations, is not only in the interest of both countries but also in the interest of the region, Europe, and the whole world,” Kurtulmus reiterated during a recent event in Ankara attended by ambassadors.
Despite Turkey’s diplomatic efforts, Kurtulmus lamented the continued impasse in negotiations, attributing it to the uncompromising stances of certain nations.
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“Unfortunately, due to the attitudes of some countries, we have moved away from the solution point,” he lamented.
Highlighting the global ramifications of the conflict, Kurtulmus expressed apprehension regarding the potential for the war to escalate into a broader conflict involving Russia and Western powers.
“God forbid, if the Russia-Ukraine war is not ended peacefully, it is even possible that we will hear the footsteps of the Third World War,” he cautioned.
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Turkey’s role as a mediator between Ukraine and Russia has garnered international recognition, with the country consistently urging both sides to engage in constructive dialogue to end hostilities.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has extended invitations to host formal talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Turkey, underscoring Turkey’s commitment to facilitating peaceful negotiations.