Anadolu Agency's Morning Briefing - May 31, 2022

By Seda Sevencan

ANKARA (AA) - Anadolu Agency is here with a rundown of the latest developments from around the world.

In a phone call with his Russian counterpart, Turkiye's president on Monday reiterated Ankara's willingness to keep doing its part for peace in Ukraine.

Turkiye is ready to play a role in a possible observation mechanism after first meeting with representatives of Russia, Ukraine and the UN in Istanbul, Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Vladimir Putin.

Erdogan also said there is a need for steps to minimize the negative effects of the war and reestablish a groundwork for peace.

Also touching on developments in Syria, where attacks by the YPG/PKK terror group on civilians and neighboring Turkiye continue, the Turkish president stressed that the regions along the border liberated from terrorists must be made safe and secure.

European Union countries agreed late Monday to reduce the amount of oil purchased from Russia by 90% by the end of this year.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban voiced criticism of the “irresponsible behavior” of the European Commission for presenting its sanctions proposal in early May without “properly negotiating with member states.”