ISTANBUL – Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and senior officials in Moscow on June 16-17. Fidan is also expected to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The discussions are anticipated to focus on the Russia-Ukraine war, navigation security in the Black Sea, Iran, Syria, Gaza, and the South Caucasus. Turkey’s offer to host Russia-Ukraine negotiations may also be brought up again.
Bilateral Relations and Regional Issues
According to ministry sources, Fidan will travel to Russia at Lavrov’s invitation. The Moscow meetings will address not only bilateral relations but also regional and global issues.
It was noted that Fidan’s last bilateral visit to Russia took place on May 26-27, 2025, and his most recent meeting with Lavrov was on April 18 during the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum.
Trade, energy, security, and consular matters between Turkey and Russia are also expected to be discussed during the talks.
Russia-Ukraine War and the Black Sea
One of Fidan’s key agenda items is expected to be the Russia-Ukraine war. Turkey is likely to emphasize its commitment to diplomatic efforts for lasting peace and reiterate its readiness to host a new round of negotiations.
Navigation security in the Black Sea will also be a significant topic. Turkey has reportedly proposed establishing a mechanism in this area and achieving a limited ceasefire covering energy infrastructure and ports.
In recent months, Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of drone attacks on tankers near Turkey’s northern coasts. Therefore, maritime transport security is expected to be a prominent issue in the discussions.
Iran, Syria, Gaza, and the South Caucasus
Iran will also be on the agenda during Fidan’s Moscow visit. Regarding Syria, he is expected to highlight the importance of continued international support to ensure stability, security, development, and prosperity.
On Gaza, messages may focus on how Israel’s aggressive and expansionist policies affect regional security and stability. In the South Caucasus file, Turkey’s support for the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia will be addressed.
Following Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s recent election victory this month, the peace process between Yerevan and Baku is being closely monitored. Progress between Armenia and Azerbaijan is also seen as potentially accelerating normalization between Turkey and Armenia.
