Erdogan: Russian and Ukrainian Presidents Hold Key to Ending Ukraine War
In an interview with PBS, Turkish President Erdogan emphasizes the pivotal role of Russian and Ukrainian leaders in determining the duration of the Ukraine conflict, discusses Turkey's stance on Sweden's NATO bid, and underscores the importance of maintaining relations with both the US and Russia.
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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has asserted that the fate of the ongoing war in Ukraine rests solely in the hands of the Russian and Ukrainian presidents. During an interview with the American public broadcaster, Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), Erdogan emphasized his inability to provide a specific timeline for the conclusion of the conflict.
"It's impossible for me to give you a calendar about when this war will end or how long it will go," Erdogan remarked, adding, "Only the leaders of both parties will be able to tell you."
The reference was made to Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, whose decisions will ultimately shape the conflict's course.
Regarding his discussions with Putin concerning the war's progress, Erdogan expressed expectations of a prolonged conflict. He did, however, highlight Putin's commitment to ending the war as swiftly as possible.
Erdogan also conveyed his trust in Russia, stating, "I have no reason not to trust them. To the extent the West is reliable, Russia is equally reliable."
In response to queries about his recent remarks on Turkey potentially parting ways with the European Union (EU), Erdogan underlined Turkey's attachment to EU decisions and its readiness to embrace positive steps forward. He emphasized Turkey's self-sufficiency over the past five decades in its EU accession aspirations.
Erdogan made it clear that Sweden's bid to join NATO and Turkey's ongoing EU accession negotiations are distinct matters. He expressed readiness to support Sweden's NATO membership, provided Sweden fulfills its commitments to combat terrorism within its borders.
The Turkish leader urged Sweden to take concrete actions against supporters of the PKK and FETO terror groups, citing concerns over their continued presence in Stockholm.
Turkey has approved Finland's NATO membership, but it awaits Sweden's fulfillment of anti-terrorism commitments before ratifying its NATO bid through the Turkish Grand National Assembly.
Erdogan affirmed that Sweden's NATO bid is under evaluation within the Turkish Grand National Assembly, emphasizing the importance of Sweden keeping its promises in combatting terrorism.
Erdogan further discussed the sale of F-16 fighter jets by the US to Turkey, asserting that this should not be tied to Sweden's NATO membership bid. He underscored the role of the Turkish Parliament in making decisions related to such bids.
Regarding Turkey's stance on EU sanctions against Russia over the Ukraine war, Erdogan defended Turkey's unique position, citing its historical ties with Russia and the humanitarian obligations that drove its involvement in the Ukraine grain corridor.
Erdogan dismissed criticisms of Putin's trustworthiness, emphasizing the substantial role of Russian natural gas supplies in Turkey's energy sector and the two nations' collaborations in the defense industry.
When asked whether Turkey benefits more from its relationship with the US or Russia, Erdogan stressed the importance of pursuing a win-win approach in international relations, emphasizing positive relations with both countries.
Erdogan also commented on US Senator Bob Menendez's opposition to the sale of F-16s to Turkey and his allegations regarding Greece's security, asserting that Menendez lacks familiarity with Turkey and is attempting to steer discussions in a hostile direction. He affirmed Turkey's longstanding friendship with Greece.
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