Turkish president reiterates offer to host Russian, Ukrainian counterparts

By Merve Aydogan

ANKARA (AA) - Turkiye's president on Thursday continued his diplomatic efforts for a cease-fire in the war between Russia and Ukraine, as he reiterated an offer to host his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts to find a diplomatic solution.

According to a statement by Turkiye's Communications Directorate, Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Vladimir Putin discussed over the phone the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine war and the humanitarian situation on the ground.

Erdogan told Putin that a permanent cease-fire between Russia and Ukraine would pave the way for a long-term solution between the two warring countries, the statement said.

He said that Turkiye maintains its sincere approach, which has been displayed since the very beginning of the war, to ensure peace between Russia and Ukraine.

Emphasizing that the war will not benefit any side, the Turkish president said that diplomacy should be given a chance.

Erdogan also stressed the need for observing the humanitarian situation on the ground and effectively operating humanitarian corridors in both directions.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which started on Feb. 24, has drawn international condemnation, led to financial restrictions on Moscow, and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 780 civilians have been killed and 1,252 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war, according to the UN, while noting that conditions on the ground make it difficult to verify the true number.

More than 3.2 million people have also fled to neighboring countries, said the UN refugee agency.