Zelensky in Türkiye: Calls for Security Guarantees and Reaffirms Ukraine’s Territorial Integrity

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during an official visit to Türkiye on Tuesday, reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to its territorial integrity and renewed calls for security guarantees from key allies.

"As a country, we want peace; we want the war to end. However, we want the end of this war to be based on certain security guarantees," Zelensky stated at the opening ceremony of Ukraine’s new embassy building in Ankara.

He emphasized that Ukraine expects security assurances from the United States, the European Union, Türkiye, and other European nations. "If Türkiye can provide Ukraine with the necessary security guarantees, we would like to see Türkiye involved in this process as well," he added.

Zelensky firmly rejected any compromise on Ukraine’s sovereignty, stating, "We will never, under any circumstances, recognize our temporarily occupied territories as part of Russia. They are part of Ukraine." He reaffirmed that Ukraine remains committed to reclaiming these regions through diplomatic means, highlighting the nation’s priority of protecting its people.

His visit comes ahead of the third anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war, amid renewed discussions on possible negotiations to end the conflict.

Türkiye’s Role in Mediation and Humanitarian Efforts

During his meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Zelensky acknowledged Türkiye’s key role as a mediator in the ongoing war, particularly in facilitating prisoner exchanges and ensuring global food security.

He praised Türkiye’s involvement in the 2022 grain corridor deal, which allowed Ukrainian grain exports to reach global markets. "Thanks to Türkiye’s efforts, we were able to establish a food corridor. However, due to Russia, this corridor was disrupted, preventing essential food supplies from reaching those in need," Zelensky stated.

He expressed gratitude to Türkiye and other nations working to maintain food security, emphasizing the importance of Ukrainian grain exports, especially to African nations and Syria.

Zelensky’s discussions with Erdoğan are expected to further explore Türkiye’s diplomatic role and the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.