Story perspectives

Erdogan Urges Black Sea Peace Amid Rising Tensions

12/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned that the Black Sea should not become a zone of confrontation amid attacks on commercial vessels and urged safe navigation and an end to strikes.
Erdogan met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a potential ceasefire and the importance of Black Sea security for regional stability.
Türkiye aims to facilitate dialogue and has hosted multiple rounds of talks between Russia and Ukraine.

History

Historical Context

The Montreux Convention, signed on July 20, 1936, granted Turkey control over the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits while ensuring free passage for civilian vessels. This agreement arose from geopolitical tensions following the Ottoman Empire's dissolution and aimed to stabilize maritime navigation. Today, Erdogan's warnings about the Black Sea reflect ongoing concerns about international navigation rights amid rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

1 of 2

Story summary

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned that the Black Sea should not become a zone of confrontation amid attacks on commercial vessels and urged safe navigation and an end to strikes.
Erdogan met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a potential ceasefire and the importance of Black Sea security for regional stability.
Türkiye aims to facilitate dialogue and has hosted multiple rounds of talks between Russia and Ukraine.

1 / 2