Turkey to host Black Sea security meeting amid potential Russia-Ukraine ceasefire

IANS April 13, 2025 287 views

Turkey is strategically positioning itself as a key mediator in the Russia-Ukraine conflict by hosting a high-level Black Sea security meeting. The gathering will explore potential ceasefire strategies and maritime safety measures involving multiple international representatives. This initiative builds on Turkey's previous diplomatic efforts, including the Black Sea grain deal and ongoing mediation attempts. The meeting underscores Turkey's crucial role in maintaining regional stability and facilitating potential peace negotiations.

"Turkey supports Ukraine's complete territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence" - Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Ankara, April 13: A high-level meeting focused on Black Sea security will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday at the Naval Forces Command headquarters in Ankara, the Turkish Defence Ministry said on Sunday.

Key Points

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Turkey coordinates multinational maritime security meeting

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Potential Russia-Ukraine ceasefire discussions planned

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Black Sea Task Group addresses mine threat

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Diplomatic efforts seek regional stability

The meeting aims to discuss military planning measures to preserve peace in the region, particularly in the event of a potential ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, the Ministry said in a statement.

Military representatives from various countries are expected to attend, with discussions centered on the maritime dimension of maintaining stability in the Black Sea, Xinhua news agency reported.

The list of participating countries was not disclosed.

The meeting builds on earlier cooperation efforts, including the establishment of the Mine Countermeasures Black Sea Task Group in July 2024.

The initiative, led by Turkey in coordination with Romania and Bulgaria, was launched to address the threat of drifting sea mines that emerged following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war.

On Saturday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, and discussed a range of issues, including the Ukraine war and the safety of navigation in the Black Sea.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan sees a new regulation on maritime safety in the Black Sea ahead of the talks as a potential way to build confidence for the peace process.

Erdogan highlighted Turkey's previous mediation efforts, including the Black Sea grain deal, which enabled Ukrainian agricultural exports until Russia withdrew in 2023.

He reaffirmed that during his talks with Zelensky, Turkey expressed its support for Ukraine's complete territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence.

Zelensky, who postponed a planned visit to Saudi Arabia amid ongoing US-Russia talks, reiterated that Ukraine must be included in any negotiations over its future.

The Saudi talks on February 18 marked the first direct discussions between US and Russian officials since the full-scale invasion began, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov meeting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Reader Comments

M
Melissa K.
Turkey stepping up as a mediator again! Their experience with the grain deal shows they can facilitate important agreements. Fingers crossed this leads to meaningful progress 🤞
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James P.
I appreciate Turkey's efforts, but I'm concerned about the lack of transparency regarding which countries are participating. Openness would build more trust in these discussions.
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Aisha R.
The mine countermeasures group was such a smart initiative! So many civilian ships were at risk. Glad to see regional cooperation continuing despite tensions.
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Thomas W.
Zelensky is right to demand Ukraine's inclusion in any talks about their future. No decisions should be made without them at the table. #StandWithUkraine
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Sophia L.
The Black Sea grain deal showed what's possible when nations work together. Hoping this meeting can build on that success! 🌍✌️
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David M.
Maritime security is often overlooked in these conflicts, but it's so crucial for trade and regional stability. Smart focus for these talks.

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Tags:
Turkey Black Sea Security Russia-Ukraine War Erdogan Diplomacy Maritime Safety
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