UPDATE - Turkish president reiterates offer to host Russian, Ukrainian counterparts

UPDATES WITH PHONE CALL BETWEEN PRESIDENTS OF TURKIYE, ROMANIA

By Merve Aydogan and Zafer Fatih Beyaz

ANKARA (AA) – Turkiye’s president on Thursday continued his diplomatic efforts for a cease-fire between Russia and Ukraine, reiterating his offer to host Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy for talks to resolve the crisis.

In a phone call, Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Putin discussed the latest developments in Ukraine and the humanitarian situation on the ground, according to a statement by Turkiye’s Communications Directorate.

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 Turkiye maintains the “sincere approach it had been displaying since the very beginning in order for peace to be ensured between Russia and Ukraine.”

“Pointing out that the war would benefit no one, and that diplomacy should be given a chance, President Erdogan drew attention to the need to attach importance to the humanitarian situation on the ground and operate the humanitarian corridors effectively in both directions,” read the statement.

- Discussion with Romanian president

In a separate phone call, Erdogan discussed the humanitarian situation and latest developments in Ukraine with his Romanian counterpart Klaus Iohannis.

He said Turkiye has been “exerting great efforts in order for peace to be ensured between Russia and Ukraine,” while also providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine and its neighbors, including Romania, who are facing an influx of refugees.

The two leaders agreed to enhance “cooperation and coordination in the management of the forced migration caused by the war, as well as measures with regard to the repercussions of this process on various sectors,” the Communications Directorate said.

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, which has said that conditions on the ground make it difficult to verify the true number.

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