Erdogan Appeals for Black Sea Calm, Proposes New Grain Corridor with Ukraine

Istanbul, Turkiye – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for an immediate cessation of attacks on civilian ships in the Black Sea by both Russia and Ukraine. Speaking at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Istanbul on Saturday, Erdogan emphasized that such actions are unacceptable regardless of the perpetrator or their justification.

The appeal comes as Erdogan and Zelenskyy agreed to collaborate on establishing a new grain corridor through the vital waterway. The discussions also coincided with remarks from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who noted increasing international interest in a temporary ceasefire in the Black Sea to safeguard grain and energy shipments.

"It is clear that attacks against civilian vessels and actions that further escalate tensions in the Black Sea serve no one’s interests," Erdogan stated. He added, "We cannot accept these attacks under any circumstances, regardless of who carries them out or what justification is offered. We call on all parties to act responsibly on this matter."

Turkiye, which maintains diplomatic ties with both Moscow and Kyiv, has expressed strong disapproval of the strikes on commercial shipping. Ankara has presented a proposal to both Russia and Ukraine aimed at ending the attacks, but has indicated that neither side has yet acted upon it.

President Zelenskyy highlighted the challenging situation in the Black Sea, attributing it to Russian actions. He confirmed that a significant portion of his dialogue with President Erdogan focused on enhancing security in the region.

"Today, I reached an agreement with President Erdogan to work on the Black Sea grain corridor," Zelenskyy announced, expressing gratitude for Turkiye's support in ensuring safe navigation and restoring normal conditions in the Black Sea. He mentioned that he and Erdogan discussed several ideas and proposals to aid these efforts.

President Erdogan expressed optimism that an agreement on safe navigation would invigorate initiatives for lasting peace in Ukraine. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Rubio indicated that the United States is reviewing proposals from Turkiye and India aimed at facilitating grain shipments, acknowledging the global implications for food and energy security.

Erdogan also welcomed the renewed diplomatic momentum towards ending the Russia-Ukraine war, referencing initiatives such as that of US President Donald Trump. "At this point, we maintain that there can be no losers in a just peace," Erdogan remarked, reaffirming Turkiye's readiness to facilitate peace efforts.

Turkiye has previously hosted multiple rounds of talks between Russia and Ukraine, aiming for a sustainable ceasefire and peace agreement. Erdogan reiterated his belief in achieving tangible results through diplomacy. He also mentioned a recent phone call with President Trump, during which he conveyed Turkiye's willingness to support efforts to revive the diplomatic process.

According to the Turkish President's office, plans are underway for a subsequent round of talks involving Russia, Ukraine, and the US, potentially resuming in November in the United Arab Emirates. Zelenskyy confirmed discussing this format, along with other possibilities including Turkiye's involvement and potential hosting of a meeting, with President Erdogan.

"Strong decisions are needed for there to be peace," Zelenskyy concluded. "And it is necessary at all levels to send signals to Russia that there is no alternative to peace and that support for Ukraine will continue."