Zelensky and Turkish foreign minister discuss risks of Russia blocking Black Sea “grain corridor”

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye Hakan Fidan, who is visiting Ukraine.

The Office of the President reports this.

The head of state noted Türkiye's constant and consistent support for Ukraine, as well as the diplomatic efforts of its leadership. Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Türkiye for its humanitarian support and assistance in releasing Ukrainian prisoners.

Zelensky emphasized the importance of the address of the President of Türkiye to the participants of the third summit of the international Crimea platform.

"We heard vital signals regarding the support of our territorial integrity and sovereignty. It is important that President Erdogan addressed us with the words that Crimea is Ukraine," Volodymyr Zelensky said.

The risks associated with Russia blocking the Black Sea "grain corridor" were discussed during the meeting.

The parties paid particular attention to the Ukrainian peace formula and preparations for the global summit on its implementation.

"Türkiye became one of the first leaders of the Peace Formula. We count on the further active role of the Republic of Türkiye in its implementation," the head of state said.

For his part, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye emphasized his country's steadfast support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty and the importance of the Ukrainian peace formula.

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Türkiye has been taking on a significant role in the Russia–Ukraine war. It acted as a mediator between the two sides, pushing forward things like the grain deal in July and prisoner exchanges in January, even though the idea of peace talks is still out of the question.

On top of that, the drones Türkiye sent to Kyiv were essential for Ukraine's first line of defense. But at the same time, people are beginning to wonder if Türkiye's economic involvement with Russia could be helping them get around the Western sanctions.