Mr. President,

Let me start by thanking Your Excellency for convening this session at a time when we find our ourselves in a conundrum about the war in Ukraine, stuck between intensified efforts for peaceful settlement and the grim reality of unrelenting attacks.

After years of intense conflict with immense humanitarian consequences, the war in Ukraine continues to have profound global implications for international peace and security.

The ongoing aggression against Ukraine and the failure to achieve a diplomatic solution adversely affects European and global security.

The war retains its devastating impact on the region, and innocent civilians are paying the highest price.

It is precisely at a time like this that we must persist in seeking a peaceful and negotiated settlement of this lengthy and destructive conflict.

Since the very outset of the conflict, Türkiye has assumed a leading role in international diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine.

Our unwavering commitment to diplomacy is guided by the principles of international law, the United Nations Charter, and the imperative of ensuring Ukraine’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.

Mr. President,

Since May, Türkiye has hosted three rounds of direct negotiations between warring parties in Istanbul.

The Istanbul talks served as a cornerstone for confidence-building, enabling progress on humanitarian issues and making dialogue possible.

It was the necessary first step that created the working space for parties to engage with each other.

The genuine momentum of Istanbul talks must now widen its scope.

Türkiye remains ready and willing to host a possible Leaders’ Summit or a fourth meeting on technical delegations’ level to prepare for the Summit in Istanbul.

We also welcome the US President Trump’s direct contacts with the warring sides and hope that the US involvement in the negotiation process will help the sides reach a mutually acceptable agreement.

Mr. President,

Among all this, we believe that the UN’s role in the pursuit of peace in Ukraine is vital.

There is room for the UN to play a greater role in the process, given its track record in Black Sea Grain Initiative.

Any peace agreement should be drafted in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.

It remains critical to stay focused on the track of diplomacy.

Ultimately, a just peace can only be achieved through direct dialogue and mutual understanding.

Türkiye, cognizant of the global humanitarian impact of the war, will proceed with its diplomatic efforts to peacefully end the war.

Thank you.