Importance Score: 72 / 100 🔴
Turkey Offers to Monitor Potential Ukraine Ceasefire
Turkey has expressed its readiness to take on the responsibility of monitoring a possible ceasefire in Ukraine, according to a source within the Turkish Foreign Ministry. This announcement was made during a call with Kyiv’s partners, a group known as the “coalition of the willing,” on Saturday. The offer highlights Turkey’s delicate position, maintaining ties with both Kyiv and Moscow while advocating for peace.
Coalition Backs Unconditional Ceasefire
The leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Poland, and Ukraine convened in Kyiv on Saturday, forming a “coalition of the willing.” They collectively agreed to push for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire for Ukraine, slated to begin on May 12. This initiative has the support of the U.S., with threats of new “massive” sanctions against Russia if compliance is not met.
Ankara’s Commitment to Ukraine’s Integrity
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan joined the “coalition of the willing” call and reiterated Turkey’s dedication to Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty, the source stated, remaining anonymous.
Turkey’s Role in Observing the Ceasefire
Fidan communicated Ankara’s backing for efforts toward an unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine. He further stated that Turkey is prepared to fulfill the role of monitoring the ceasefire should it be implemented, the source confirmed.
Maintaining Relations Amidst Conflict
As a NATO member, Turkey has sustained amicable relations with both Kyiv and Moscow since the commencement of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Turkey has consistently voiced its support for Ukraine’s territorial unity and has extended military assistance, while simultaneously opposing sanctions against Russia.
Potential Peacekeeping Contributions
In March, Turkey’s defense ministry announced its potential contribution to a prospective peacekeeping operation in Ukraine, contingent upon the declaration of a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia. Last month, military representatives from Ukraine, the UK, France, and Turkey convened in Turkey to deliberate on Black Sea security arrangements pending a potential agreement on a ceasefire in Ukraine.