Ukraine, Turkey Discuss Potential Peace Talks Amid Shifting Geopolitical Landscape

Kyiv and Ankara are continuing discussions regarding Turkey’s potential role in hosting future peace negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine, even as the landscape of international mediation shifts with evolving geopolitical dynamics.

Zelensky and Erdoğan’s Dialogue

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently spoke with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reaffirming the importance of dialogue in ending the war. Zelensky stated that Turkey is prepared to host the next round of trilateral peace talks, involving Ukraine, Russia and the United States Al Arabiya.

“Dialogue on ending the war in Ukraine is important and it is a priority for all of us, that is why we were ready to proceed to Turkey,” Zelensky said in response to reporters’ questions on Tuesday.

Postponement of US-Led Talks

The potential talks in Turkey come after a meeting originally scheduled for early March was postponed by the American side. Zelensky indicated that the meeting, planned for March 5-8, was moved to the following week Al Arabiya.

Prior to the postponement, Ukraine, Russia, and the United States had held several rounds of trilateral talks, including meetings in Abu Dhabi in January and February, and in Geneva in mid-February.

Geopolitical Context and US-Russia Discussions

The discussions surrounding potential peace talks are occurring against a backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics, including a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15 to discuss ending the war in Ukraine—without Ukraine’s participation The Kyiv Independent.

Zelensky has emphasized that any negotiations without Ukraine’s involvement will not lead to lasting peace, and has been actively seeking support from allies in light of these developments The Kyiv Independent.

Turkey’s Role as Mediator

Turkey has previously played a role in hosting talks between Ukraine and Russia and maintains ties with both Kyiv and Moscow BBC News. President Erdoğan has expressed his commitment to facilitating a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Zelensky’s visit to Turkey in November 2025 aimed to “intensify” peace negotiations, with a focus on resuming prisoner exchanges BBC News.

Recent Diplomatic Efforts

In the period leading up to these discussions, Zelensky has engaged in diplomatic efforts to bolster European support for Ukraine, securing a gas deal in Athens, an agreement for fighter jets in Paris, and talks with arms manufacturers in Madrid BBC News.