19.11.2025 21:13
President Erdoğan, who met with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky at Beştepe, spoke at a joint press conference. Reminding that negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, which resulted in a prisoner exchange, took place in Istanbul a few months ago, Erdoğan stated, "The Istanbul process should continue, we are ready to engage in discussions with Russia. We must be constructive with both Russia and Ukraine."
Ukrainian President Zelensky and President Erdoğan held a joint press conference at Beştepe, where they stated, "The Istanbul process must continue, we are ready to talk with Russia. We must be constructive with Russia and Ukraine."
PRESS CONFERENCE AFTER THE SUMMIT BY ERDOĞAN AND ZELENSKY
President Erdoğan met with Ukrainian President Zelensky at Beştepe. After the meeting, the two leaders faced the cameras. President Erdoğan stated that the Istanbul process must continue for peace between Russia and Ukraine.
Highlights from Erdoğan's statements are as follows:
""We hosted the talks initiated between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations. It was possible to make progress, especially on humanitarian issues, in three rounds of negotiations. Ceasefire and peace discussions, as well as military issues, were addressed directly between the parties. We see all of these as valuable steps. Today, we emphasized the need for the Istanbul process to be continued with a pragmatic and results-oriented understanding.
ERDOĞAN: THE ISTANBUL PROCESS MUST BE REINITIATED
I stated that I believe the Istanbul talks represent an important milestone during a period when the devastating effects of war are deepening for both sides. Increasing attacks on energy infrastructures and casualties are bringing irreparable destruction for both sides. We believe it would be beneficial for the Istanbul process to be reinitiated in a comprehensive manner to address the acute issues.
I would like to mention that we evaluated bilateral issues in our meeting with my dear friend Zelensky. We reaffirmed our commitment to Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence. I would like to state that our support for the Crimean Tatars, with whom we have a unique historical bond, will continue. We aim to increase our bilateral trade volume to 10 billion dollars. We wish to contribute to Ukraine with the support of Turkish entrepreneurs who continue their work courageously without leaving the country. First of all, we are ready to discuss proposals with Russia that will accelerate a ceasefire and pave the way for a just and lasting peace.
We also value the involvement of our ally America in the process. I reiterate my condolences to the friendly Ukrainian people for those who lost their lives in the war."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also made statements at the press conference:
"Mr. President, esteemed members of the press, valued teams, we are in Turkey today. As always, we had a very productive and comprehensive meeting with President Erdoğan. We value the trust between our states highly. Turkey's importance to Ukraine is very significant. This is not our first meeting.
"TURKEY'S PRINCIPLED STANCE IS VERY IMPORTANT"
Turkey's principled stance against the war waged against our state and people is very important. I thank Turkey for its clear stance against the elements of Russian aggression. I thank Turkey for supporting Ukraine's independence and sovereignty. The struggle of everyone defending their lives is a legitimate right of self-defense. The world has once again seen Russian aggression and what this war brings. Our cities have once again been attacked by Russia.
In just one of our cities, more than 20 people lost their lives. As of now, it is known that 25 people have died. I extend my condolences to the families. Rescue teams are trying to do everything. In today's Russian attack, 48 missiles and 476 drones were used. As Ukraine, we must constantly defend against such attacks. We are doing our best to provide the necessary missiles, weapons, equipment, and fighter jets for our air defense.
"THERE IS NO ALTERNATIVE TO PEACE"
I am grateful to everyone who helps Ukraine. I thank Turkey for all the work we are doing together. Today, we discussed projects with the President. We are waiting for the results. We also discussed the diplomatic situation sufficiently. The process has accelerated and revitalized. The war must end, and there is no alternative to peace. Russia must understand that it will not be rewarded in any way for war and killing.
We share the same view with Turkey on this matter. Peace and security must be guaranteed. We will continue to work closely with all our partners. I would like to thank President Erdoğan once again. Turkey's active participation, especially in the maritime component, is important. This security can only be guaranteed with Turkey. We are also working for the return of our military prisoners, especially the Crimean Tatar detainees, to their homes. Our relevant platforms are working. There are also platforms we have established in Turkey."