Essential role of Turkey in implementing Russia-Ukraine truce
In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Turkey has emerged as a key player due to its unique military capabilities and diplomatic reach.
Turkey, a NATO member and a politically viable option for anchoring a structured ceasefire mission, has proven capable of delivering concessions from Moscow without alienating Kyiv. This was evident when President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted the first and only direct peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul in March 2022.
The country's military prowess, coupled with its strategic position, makes it a unique candidate for such a mission. Turkey has not joined EU sanctions against Russia and has deepened energy trade with Moscow, yet it has managed to maintain open lines to both Kyiv and Moscow since February 2022, a feat unmatched by other NATO members.
Turkey's role in the Black Sea, as per the Montreux Convention, could be significant in a ceasefire scenario. The country enforced the convention in the Black Sea, providing it with permanent access, a privilege shared only with Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey from the NATO alliance. This access could be vital in monitoring a potential ceasefire in the air, on the ground, and in the sea.
Engaging Turkey in a ceasefire mission could leverage its diplomatic reach. Turkey's involvement could serve as a bridge rather than a trap in a potential ceasefire. The country's ability to act as a mediator could reinforce NATO's relevance in conflict resolution.
In addition to its diplomatic efforts, Turkey has also provided arms shipments and backed Ukraine's territorial integrity. This demonstrates its commitment to upholding international law and maintaining peace in the region.
However, Turkey conditions its participation in a peace mission in Ukraine on a prior ceasefire between Kyiv and Moscow. The country emphasizes the need for a clear ceasefire first and then defining the mission's mandate and each country's contribution.
In the economic sphere, Turkey has been thriving. The country brought in $25.6 billion in tourism revenue in the first half of 2025 with a record-breaking 26 million visitors. This economic strength could further bolster Turkey's ability to contribute to a potential ceasefire mission.
Despite these positive developments, Turkey faces challenges. A magnitude 4.8 earthquake occurred in Balikesir's Sindirgi and was felt in Izmir, Bursa, and Istanbul, reminding us of the natural disasters that can affect the region.
In conclusion, Turkey's unique position, diplomatic reach, and military capabilities make it a potential key player in a potential Ukraine ceasefire mission. Its ability to act as a bridge between Kyiv and Moscow, while maintaining relations with both parties, could facilitate balanced mediation and stabilization efforts in the region. However, a capable force willing to act and deliver concessions from Moscow without alienating Kyiv is needed for a successful ceasefire.
