Turkey to Once Again Facilitate Peace Talks Between Russia and Ukraine

Turkey’s role in the normalization process between Turkey and Syria has been significantly influenced by Russia. While Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has taken a more conciliatory stance towards Turkey, Russia’s role in this process is also crucial. Following positive statements from both Assad and Turkish President Erdogan, joint land patrols between Russia and Syria have resumed. In this context, Turkey’s mediation between Russia and Ukraine is expected to be a response to Russia’s actions in the Syria-Turkey normalization process. Erdogan has previously held several meetings with both Russian President Putin and Ukrainian President Zelensky to broker a ceasefire and reduce tensions. The Istanbul talks brought both sides to the table. Turkey is the only country to have held talks with both Ukraine and Russia, which strengthens the possibility of Turkey facilitating renewed dialogue between the two countries.