World
Erdogan Calls for End to Black Sea Attacks as Turkey and Ukraine Agree on Grain Corridor
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged both Russia and Ukraine to stop targeting civilian ships in the Black Sea during a joint news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Istanbul. Erdogan said attacks on civilian vessels were unacceptable, regardless of who carried them out, and called on all parties to act responsibly. The meeting coincided with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s statement that there was growing international interest in a limited ceasefire in the Black Sea to secure grain and energy shipments. Erdogan noted that Turkey has proposed an end to attacks but that neither side has acted on the proposal. Zelenskyy said the discussion focused on security in the Black Sea and announced an agreement with Erdogan to work on a new grain corridor. He thanked Turkey for its support in ensuring safe navigation and restoring normal living conditions. Erdogan added that talks to restore safe navigation would continue and that an agreement could give new impetus to lasting peace in Ukraine. The U.S. is reviewing proposals by Turkey and India to move grain shipments, Rubio said, noting the threat to global food and energy security. Zelenskyy mentioned the possibility of talks in Turkey and highlighted renewed momentum behind diplomatic efforts to end the Russia‑Ukraine war, citing U.S. President Donald Trump’s initiative. Erdogan said Turkey was ready to support efforts to revive the diplomatic process and end the war, and that tangible results can be achieved through diplomacy. The Kremlin announced that the next round of talks between Russia, Ukraine and the U.S. would resume in November in the United Arab Emirates, a format discussed by Zelenskyy with Erdogan, who also mentioned involving Turkey, Europe and other partners.