Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. As reported by RBC-Ukraine, the head of state himself announced this in his Telegram channel. According to him, the agenda of the talks was focused primarily on security in the Black Sea and the practical mechanisms for ensuring the operation of the maritime export corridor, as well as on a number of bilateral issues, including the free trade zone and a potential agreement on drones.
Black Sea Security and the Export Corridor
The central point of discussion was the situation around the Black Sea and how to ensure the sustainable operation of the maritime export corridor. Zelensky emphasized that countries on every continent depend on Ukrainian food exports, and stated that there are currently various options on the table for its full restoration. Thus, Kyiv positions the corridor issue not only as a domestic matter but also as a global food security challenge, for which, in his wording, both partners and the international community are responsible.
Kyiv's Conditions for a Ceasefire
Commenting on the prospects for de-escalation, the President of Ukraine formulated a condition that, in his words, must precede any mirror response from Kyiv: "What is needed is exclusively Russia's readiness to stop its terrorist strikes on our infrastructure, so that Ukraine can mirror-stop its long-range responses." Zelensky also thanked Erdogan for his consistent support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty and stated that it is important for Russia's war against Ukraine to end "with dignity and respect for international law."
Drone Deal and the Free Trade Zone
In addition to regional security, the leaders discussed the bilateral agenda. In particular, the free trade zone and a potential "Drone Deal" — an agreement on unmanned systems — were discussed. These points indicate that Kyiv views Turkey not only as a political mediator in Black Sea matters but also as a technological and economic partner capable of participating in joint projects in the drone sector.
Context: Turkey's De-escalation Plan
The meeting took place against the backdrop of Turkey having already delivered its own proposal for de-escalation in the Black Sea to Ukraine and Russia the day before, having developed a plan to resolve the crisis in the region. Zelensky also informed the Turkish leader about contacts with the American team. In a broader context, the President of Ukraine had previously stated that Russia seeks to seize Odesa, Kharkiv, and Dnipro, and linked the spread of war and instability to the actions of the Russian leadership; he also noted that without the return of annexed Crimea under Ukrainian control, it is impossible to restore normal life and the principles of international law.
