Turkey views Russia as a threat, especially given its ambitions to dominate the Black Sea region. That is why the partnership with Ukraine is in line with Turkey's strategic interests. If Russia crushes Ukraine, the next targets could be the Caucasus and Turkey.
This was stated in an interview with RBC-Ukraine by Ukrainian Ambassador to Turkey Nariman Jellyal.
The war between Ukraine and Russia creates political and economic challenges, as Turkey maintains close ties with both countries. For this reason, Ankara is trying to mediate between the two countries to stop the war.
„Turkey has very strong relations with Russia, especially in the fields of energy, investment and tourism. At the same time, it firmly supports the territorial integrity of Ukraine and is committed to deepening economic cooperation with us. This dual position – together with its NATO membership and sanctions against Russia – complicates its role, but does not prevent it from acting as a mediator,” explained Celal.
Turkey is a mediator for another reason – prestige, explained the Ukrainian ambassador. “Serving as a mediator is an honorable mission. Turkey has the ambition and capacity for this role, which allows it to gain certain advantages and increase its international authority,” the ambassador noted.
The Turkish side has provided a neutral platform and guaranteed security and organizational conditions for dialogue.
Is the idea of organizing a meeting between the leaders of Russia, Ukraine and the United States in Turkey realistic? “The President of Ukraine has long been ready for such a meeting, just like the President of Turkey, who has constantly emphasized the need for one. The President of the United States has also shown openness, for example, during his visit to the Middle East. But Russia refuses,” Celal said.
Turkey understands Russia’s delaying tactics, but maintains its neutrality to maintain its role as a mediator.
Is Turkey ready to put pressure on Russia? Turkey is playing the role of a mediator, balancing its support for Ukraine with a desire to avoid direct pressure on Russia. “Turkey primarily defends its own interests. So we should not have unrealistic expectations of it. As for its neutrality in the negotiation process, it is currently fully fulfilling its role as a mediator,” Celal said.
Turkey’s relations with Russia are complex – a mix of cooperation and rivalry. Despite tensions, such as the downing of a Russian plane by Turkey in 2015, trade and tourism between the two countries are flourishing.
“If we want Turkey to get closer to us, we need to think not only about values and symbols - which are important for both countries - but also about building concrete, pragmatic cooperation: economic, military, security and others. And in principle, that is exactly what we are doing now“, stressed the Ukrainian ambassador in Ankara.
Turkey has consistently supported the territorial integrity of Ukraine, especially with regard to Crimea. “Erdogan has clearly stated that Crimea should remain part of Ukraine”, reminded Celal. According to him, there is a noticeable pro-Ukrainian current in Turkey - especially among journalists and civil servants.