Peskov commented on the planned talks between Erdogan and Zelensky

The Kremlin will closely monitor the results of the talks between Turkish and Ukrainian Presidents Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Volodymyr Zelensky. This was stated by the press secretary of the Russian leader Dmitry Peskov.

He noted that Moscow maintains partnership relations with Ankara and cherishes them, feels reciprocity.

“Of course, we will follow the results of the talks you mentioned very closely. <...> Therefore, of course, we will be interested to know what will be discussed between Mr. Erdogan and Mr. Zelensky. This is important,” Peskov explained. He noted that Erdogan’s participation in resolving various problems in the context of the Ukrainian conflict was highly appreciated by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Peskov also allowed contacts between Putin and Erdogan in the future. “We do not exclude them in the foreseeable future. You know that Putin and Erdogan communicate frequently and regularly, and face-to-face contacts have been repeatedly discussed. As soon as the terms of such contacts and dates are determined, we will inform you,” Peskov said.

On July 6, the Turkish TV channel Ahaber reported that on July 7, the presidents of Ukraine and Turkey will hold talks, where they can discuss the extension of the agreement on grain.

The term of the agreement on the grain deal expires on July 17. Moscow has repeatedly stated that the Russian part of the agreements on the grain deal is still not being fulfilled, and therefore there are no grounds for its extension. However, the official decision of the Russian authorities has not yet been announced.

In early July, Erdogan toldthat Turkey faced opposition from the “military lobby” in organizing negotiations on the extension of the grain deal and the exchange of prisoners between Russia and Ukraine. According to him, Turkey “is still the only country that simultaneously negotiates with Russia and Ukraine, manages channels of dialogue and develops proposals.”