Erdoğan to discuss Ukraine grain corridor with Putin in Monday call

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has revealed he will hold a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday to discuss potential revival of the Black Sea grain corridor. Speaking to journalists during the G20 summit in Johannesburg, the Turkish president framed this diplomatic effort as part of broader peace initiatives between Moscow and Kyiv.

Grain Initiative as Peace Pathway

President Erdoğan expressed confidence that restarting the grain agreement would yield significant benefits, noting that Türkiye's efforts are ultimately directed toward "paving the way for peace." Türkiye previously brokered the original Black Sea grain deal in 2022, which Russia suspended in July 2023, and arranged early negotiations between the warring parties shortly after the conflict began.

Strong Stance on Palestine and Regional Conflicts

The Turkish leader reiterated Ankara's unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, emphasizing that Türkiye "boldly defends the rights of the oppressed people of Gaza on every platform." He reported sending 103,000 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza and stressed that implementing a two-state solution remains vital for lasting resolution. Erdoğan also praised South Africa's "courageous stance" in filing genocide charges against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

Broader Regional Engagement and Bilateral Relations

Beyond the Ukraine and Palestine issues, President Erdoğan addressed Türkiye's role in multiple regional conflicts, stating that Sudanese people have requested Turkish involvement in resolving their crisis. He also highlighted strengthening ties with South Africa, noting the growing dialogue between the two nations and their ruling parties, and describing his multiple visits to the "rainbow nation" since 2005 as foundation for deepening bilateral relations.