Erdoğan and Zelensky Summit in Ankara: Ready to Talk with Russia for Peace

WISE NEWS PRESS/ ANKARA, TURKEY — NOVEMBER 19, 2025

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara, and critical statements emerged from the leaders at the joint press conference following the talks, with Erdoğan reaffirming Turkey's readiness to engage with Russia for an immediate ceasefire.

Stressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis and deepening effects of the war on both sides, President Erdoğan called for the crucial Istanbul talks process to be urgently reactivated, while Zelensky highlighted the immense value of Turkey's unwavering diplomatic stance and support for Ukraine. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, MIT Head İbrahim Kalın, and Presidential Chief Advisor Akif Çağatay Kılıç also participated in the meeting.

Erdoğan: Istanbul Process Must Be Relaunched

In his remarks at the joint press conference, President Erdoğan expressed his pleasure in hosting Zelensky again and recalled that Turkey had hosted the first direct talks between Ukrainian and Russian delegations in over three years following Zelensky’s previous visit in May.

The Turkish President stated his belief that the Istanbul talks constituted an important stage, particularly now as the war's destructive effects are deepening:

“I stated our belief that the Istanbul talks constitute an important phase in a period where the devastating effects of the war are deepening for both sides. The increasing attacks on energy infrastructure and loss of life bring about irreparable destruction for both sides. We are of the opinion that it would be beneficial to re-activate the Istanbul process with a comprehensive content to address the issues that have now become acute.”

Erdoğan addressed all partners who desire the bloodshed in the region to stop:

"We are ready to talk with Russia about proposals that will accelerate the ceasefire and pave the way for a just and lasting peace."

He added that they expect a constructive approach towards the Istanbul process from all partners who wish to see the bloodshed in the region stop, and pointed out the importance of the allied United States being involved in the process.

Zelensky: Turkey's Stance is Highly Important for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked President Erdoğan for his stance, stating that Turkey's support is of great importance to Ukraine.

Emphasizing the value of their cooperation with Turkey, Zelensky noted a recent Russian attack:

“Tonight, the world actually saw Russian aggression again. A new Russian attack was carried out on our cities. Russian UAVs and missiles hit ordinary residential buildings. More than 20 people lost their lives in just one of our cities. People who were sleeping peacefully in their homes... As of now, 25 people are known to have died, including two children. Rescue efforts are still ongoing."

He concluded, "We thank Turkey for all the work we carry out together. We trust the power of Turkish diplomacy."

Bilateral Ties and the $10 Billion Goal

Erdoğan also reported that they discussed bilateral relations, reaffirming Turkey's commitment to Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence. He added that Turkey's support for the Crimean Tatars, with whom Turkey shares a special historical bond, will continue.

The leaders agreed on the goal of increasing the bilateral trade volume to $10 billion. The President also expressed a desire to contribute to Ukraine through the support of Turkish entrepreneurs who continue to operate bravely in the country.

Presidents Erdoğan and Zelensky at the joint press conference in Ankara, Ankara. (Photo: Anadolu Agency (AA))

www.wisenewspress.com