Turkey confirms that the meeting of Putin and Zelensky depends on the Russian president agreeing to the meeting

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MADRID, 14 Apr. (EUROPE PRESS) –

Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu, confirmed on Thursday that a possible meeting of the presidents of Russia and Ukraine, Vladimir Putin and Volodimir Zelenski, in the Eurasian country depends on the former agreeing to hold it.

In an interview granted to the Turkish network NTV, Cavusoglu indicated that the negotiations between the two parties are continuing, although he acknowledged that the publication of images showing the massacre of civilians in Bucha, allegedly committed by Russian forces, have “negatively affected “to the process.

“The inhumane images of regions like Bucha and Irpin, which we condemn, have changed the atmosphere,” lamented the Turkish minister, who pointed out that this has become “negative” for the Ukrainian side.

“There were different statements by Russia in this regard, but, ultimately, this has negatively affected the negotiation process”, he indicated, before pointing out that, nevertheless and “despite all the difficulties, there is the possibility of a halt the fire”.

In this context, he has valued Turkey’s role as a mediator, ensuring that Ankara “makes efforts to find a solution” to the conflict. On the other hand, he has stressed that the country “acts in accordance with international law” and has guaranteed that Ankara will maintain its “balanced” position.

Thus, he has indicated that “the (global) perspective towards Turkey has changed in a positive way” and has considered that a stronger Turkey “will be a much more important actor in the future.”

Zelensky has repeatedly asked Putin for a face-to-face meeting, although at the moment there are no plans to hold this meeting. Although the Kremlin does not “reject” it, he has indicated that it will be possible when the parties agree on a text to end the conflict.