Fidan Leads Phone Diplomacy Ahead of Russia–Ukraine Peace Talks in Istanbul
hakan fidan
As Istanbul prepares to host high-level cease-fire negotiations between Russia and Ukraine on May 15, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has initiated a wave of intensive phone diplomacy with key global counterparts, according to diplomatic sources.
Fidan spoke first with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, addressing a range of issues, from bilateral ties to regional flashpoints including Syria, Gaza, and Ukraine. The discussion also touched on Rubio’s upcoming visit to Türkiye for the Informal NATO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Antalya on May 14–15.
Sanctions on Syria and Hostage Release Also on the Agenda
During the conversation, Fidan urged the lifting of economic sanctions on Syria, arguing that this would help promote long-term stability and reconstruction in the war-torn country. He also welcomed the recent release of American citizen Edan Alexander by Hamas, citing it as a hopeful development for de-escalation in Gaza.
Fidan Consults with Russia and France Ahead of Istanbul Summit
After his discussion with Rubio, Fidan held separate calls with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. Both conversations focused on the upcoming Istanbul peace talks aimed at resolving the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed the call, stating that Lavrov and Fidan had discussed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for direct negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul.
“The heads of the two ministries discussed issues linked with President Putin’s initiative to begin direct talks on a Ukrainian settlement on May 15 in Istanbul,” said the ministry.
Türkiye Emerges as Diplomatic Hub Amid War in Ukraine
With its geopolitical positioning and NATO membership, Türkiye continues to play a balancing role in facilitating dialogue between opposing sides in global conflicts. The Istanbul-hosted talks may mark a significant step toward a negotiated resolution if the parties agree on confidence-building measures and a roadmap for de-escalation.
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