Zelensky, Erdogan discuss peace process, prisoner swaps, Türkiye’s role in Coalition of the Willing

This was reported by the Ukrainian President during a joint press conference with President Erdoğan, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

“Today in Türkiye, as always, we had a very productive and meaningful conversation with President Erdoğan. We in Ukraine greatly value the trust between our countries and peoples,” Zelensky said.

He noted that this is not their first meeting this year and expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s principled stance on Russia’s war against Ukraine.

“Türkiye supports Ukraine’s independence. We thank them for supporting our territorial integrity and sovereignty. Our sovereignty is a daily struggle for Ukrainians — military, civilians, everyone defending the right to life in Ukraine,” emphasized the Ukrainian President.

According to him, the discussion also covered further cooperation, joint production projects, and coordination for more effective protection of lives. “Our teams will work on what was agreed today. We are counting on results,” Zelensky said.

The President also noted that the negotiations addressed the peace process.

“Of course, we spoke specifically about the diplomatic situation. Many processes have now been activated, and we are aiming to channel all activity toward a dignified peace and guaranteed security. The war must end; there is no alternative to peace,” Zelensky stressed.

He added, “We rely on the strength of Turkish diplomacy and its influence in Moscow.”

According to him, the parties also discussed Black Sea security. Zelensky emphasized the importance of Türkiye’s involvement in the Coalition of the Willing, “especially in its naval component. Everyone understands the significance of security in the Black Sea, and such security can only be ensured together with Türkiye,” he said.

The sides also discussed resuming prisoner exchanges by the end of the year.

As reported, Volodymyr Zelensky is visiting Turkey on a working trip on November 19. The main topic of negotiations with Erdoğan is the effort to end the war, including the resumption of the negotiation process.

Photo: T.C. Cumhurbaşkanlığı / X