Any peace plan that excludes Russia's involvement will not bring results: Erdogan

Maintaining stability in the South Caucasus is one of Turkey's priorities, Recep Erdogan said. The President of Turkey expressed hope that with the signing of the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, a new era will begin in the region.

He referred to the situation in the Gaza Strip, expressed concern that since October 32,000 civilians have been killed and 73,000 injured as a result of Israeli attacks. “Gaza has turned into a cemetery for children and women. Instead of covering up the fact of the genocide, the rulers of Israel must answer for the children dying of thirst and hunger in Gaza,” Erdogan said.

Speaking about the possible Russian-Ukrainian settlement, the Turkish leader said: “Ankara supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, at the same time we emphasize that any peace plan that excludes the involvement of Russia will not bring results.”

According to him, Turkey is now holding a dialogue with both Kyiv and Moscow. “We received Mr. Zelensky in Istanbul, and after the elections in Russia we will also receive Mr. Putin,” the Turkish President added.