Zelensky and Erdogan during talks in Istanbul focused on security ties, energy cooperation and efforts to advance peace in Ukraine. Credit: Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye official facebook page
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul, where the two leaders focused on expanding security cooperation, exploring joint energy projects and supporting efforts aimed at advancing peace in Ukraine.
Following the meeting, Zelensky said he and Erdogan had agreed to take new steps in bilateral security cooperation. He said there was clear political will on both sides and that working groups from Ukraine and Turkey would soon finalize the details of the next phase.
Zelensky added that Ukraine is prepared to support Turkey in areas where it can offer strong expertise, particularly in know how, technology and practical experience. His remarks pointed to a broader and more structured partnership, with both sides looking to move from political coordination to concrete initiatives.
Zelensky and Erdogan put energy cooperation on the agenda
In addition to security matters, the two presidents discussed potential cooperation on natural gas infrastructure and the development of gas fields. The energy component added another strategic layer to the meeting, highlighting how Ankara and Kyiv are seeking common ground not only in defense and diplomacy, but also in projects with longer term economic and geopolitical value.
Turkey has continued to play a delicate role in the wider regional picture, maintaining dialogue with both Ukraine and Russia while presenting itself as a possible facilitator in diplomatic efforts. According to the Turkish presidency, Erdogan told Zelensky that Ankara would continue to support negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
A broader message on peace
Zelensky’s visit to Istanbul also included a meeting at the Ecumenical Patriarchate in the Phanar, where Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew received him warmly at the Patriarchal Office. The two held a private meeting that lasted around an hour and a half.
Bartholomew expressed the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s support for peace efforts and also raised the issue of the thousands of children abducted from Ukraine. He said he hoped they would soon return and be reunited with their families.
In remarks to the Athens Macedonian News Agency (AMNA), the Patriarch said the Ecumenical Patriarchate always prays for peace and supports negotiations for the peaceful resolution of conflicts. He also said the Church stands close to people suffering in the Middle East, in Ukraine and in other parts of the world.
Zelensky stresses sovereignty and international unity
In his own comments, Zelensky said Ukraine remains steadfast in its pursuit of a just peace.
He said every step taken by Kyiv is aimed at protecting its people and restoring its sovereignty, while stressing that international unity remains one of Ukraine’s greatest strengths.