Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has publicly condemned the recent targeting of commercial ships within the Black Sea, labeling such actions as unacceptable. During a joint press briefing in Istanbul with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, Erdogan emphasized that escalating hostilities in the region benefit no party involved. He urged both Russia and Ukraine to exercise restraint and act responsibly, regardless of the justifications provided for these strikes. Although Turkey has previously suggested a mutual cessation of attacks against non-military vessels, Ankara reports that neither side has committed to the proposal. President Zelensky utilized the meeting to reiterate his stance that Russia is the primary force destabilizing maritime security in the area. Turkey continues to position itself as a mediator, maintaining diplomatic channels with both nations while expressing frustration over the ongoing threats to civilian maritime traffic.
Source : Turkish Minute
