Erdogan balances Turkish interests in talks with Putin on trade and Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a phone conversation on Sunday to discuss bilateral trade and economic cooperation, according to a statement from the Kremlin. 

The two leaders also touched on a number of international issues during the call.

Turkey maintains relatively good relations with Russia, balancing its position as a NATO member while fostering ties with Moscow. However, President Erdogan has consistently demonstrated independence in his foreign policy, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict.

Erdogan has openly opposed Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and has condemned its aggression against Ukraine, including the full-scale invasion launched in 2022. Despite these disagreements, Ankara and Moscow have managed to preserve a cooperative relationship in areas such as energy, trade, and regional diplomacy.

Erdogan’s ability to engage with Putin while asserting his stance on critical issues like Ukraine highlights Turkey’s strategic balancing act. Ankara has provided military support to Ukraine, such as the supply of Bayraktar drones, which have been pivotal for Kyiv’s defense, while simultaneously mediating negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv.

The Turkish president has also played a key role in brokering agreements like the Black Sea grain deal, which facilitated the export of Ukrainian grain to global markets amid the conflict.

Broader Implications

The phone call between Putin and Erdogan underscores the importance of their bilateral relationship, particularly in the context of global economic and geopolitical shifts.

While their cooperation in trade and energy strengthens ties, Erdogan’s independent stance on Ukraine reflects his commitment to protecting Turkey’s national interests and maintaining its influence on the international stage.