The head of the Turkish Foreign Ministry, Hakhan Fidan spoke ahead of the start of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

The Turkish minister, who is coordinating the talks, said the following: “Turkey is glad to see the representatives of the two countries in Istanbul. Ankara considers it important that Russia and Ukraine listened to Trump and Erdogan’s calls for peace. The Moscow and Kiev delegations must decide for themselves whether to reach peace or continue the destructive conflict, these are the two paths that exist.”

“The first meeting in three years between representatives of Russia and Ukraine is an opportunity that should be seized, as every day of conflict leads to casualties. The talks in Istanbul are important in preparation for a possible meeting of the countries’ leaders. Ankara sincerely believes that the Istanbul meeting can lead to peace if the parties adopt a constructive approach,” the Turkish minister added.