Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to meet with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on Friday.
The primary focus of the discussions will be the ongoing grain initiative, which has allowed Ukraine to export over 30 million tons of wheat and other food products globally since August 2022. However, Russia has declared that it will not extend the initiative beyond July 17 due to unmet conditions.
Turkey has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to end the armed conflict in Ukraine, maintaining strong dialogue with both Kiev and Moscow. President Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s commitment to urging both sides to halt the war and pursue negotiations for a lasting peace agreement through Turkey’s mediation.
The upcoming NATO leaders’ summit in Vilnius, scheduled for July 11-12, will also be a prominent topic of discussion. Security assurances for Ukraine will be a key point on the agenda, and Ukraine seeks to open a path for its NATO membership at the summit.
During the meeting, President Zelensky is expected to seek Turkey’s support in securing heavier weaponry and fighter jets from NATO members. This support would bolster Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia.
