Full Breakdown
Zelensky and Erdogan Discuss Reviving Peace Talks Amid Ongoing Conflict
11/20/2025, 1:56:59 AM
Diplomatic Efforts in Ankara
On November 19, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, focusing on diplomatic efforts to address the ongoing conflict stemming from Russia's full-scale war in Ukraine. The meeting aimed to revive the Istanbul negotiation process, which had previously facilitated discussions between Ukrainian and Russian diplomats. Erdogan emphasized the urgency of reactivating these talks, stating, “We believe it would be beneficial to reactivate the Istanbul process with a more comprehensive approach that addresses the problems.”
During the joint press conference, Erdogan highlighted the humanitarian toll of the conflict, citing recent Russian missile strikes that resulted in at least 25 fatalities in Ternopil, Ukraine. He called for a pragmatic and results-oriented approach to the Istanbul process, which had previously yielded some progress on humanitarian issues and prisoner exchanges.
Key Topics of Discussion
The discussions between Zelensky and Erdogan encompassed several critical topics, including the resumption of prisoner exchanges and the broader peace process. Zelensky expressed hope for restarting these exchanges by the end of the year, noting that Turkey's involvement was crucial. He stated, “We rely on the strength of Turkish diplomacy and its ability to be understood in Moscow.”
Additionally, a senior Ukrainian official indicated that Kyiv had received signals regarding U.S. proposals aimed at ending the war, although Ukraine was not involved in their preparation. This development suggests a potential shift in the diplomatic landscape, as no face-to-face talks between Kyiv and Moscow had occurred since July.
Criticism and Challenges
Despite the optimism surrounding the revival of peace talks, challenges remain. The Russian government has shown little willingness to alter its terms for negotiations, which have included ultimatums regarding territorial concessions and military aid. Zelensky's administration has expressed frustration over the lack of progress in previous rounds of talks, with Deputy Foreign Minister Serhiy Kyslytsia noting that meaningful discussions are difficult when engaging with a delegation that operates under a rigid mandate.
Official Statements & Responses
Both leaders underscored the importance of international cooperation in achieving a resolution. Erdogan reiterated Turkey's commitment to Ukraine's territorial integrity and expressed a desire to enhance bilateral trade. Zelensky thanked Turkey for its principled stance throughout the conflict, emphasizing the need for a "just peace" and the significance of Turkish involvement in the Coalition of the Willing, particularly regarding Black Sea security.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We believe it would be beneficial to reactivate the Istanbul process with a more comprehensive approach that addresses the problems,” — Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of Turkey
- “Türkiye’s principled position on the war with Russia is very important for Ukraine.” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
- “The war must end; there is no alternative to peace,” Zelensky stressed.” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
What's Next
As diplomatic efforts continue, the involvement of the United States, particularly through special envoy Steve Witkoff, remains a focal point. The upcoming discussions and potential prisoner exchanges could pave the way for renewed negotiations, although the path to a lasting peace remains fraught with challenges.
