The Ukraine-Russia conflict is reshaping global geopolitics, and Türkiye has emerged as a pivotal player, navigating this crisis with a distinctive mix of diplomacy and strategic balancing. This conflict, which challenges established norms, tests the limits of multilateral frameworks and underscores vulnerabilities in global governance, has created both risks and opportunities for regional actors. For Türkiye, these stakes are particularly high. As a NATO member with deep economic ties to Russia and a steadfast commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty, Türkiye occupies a unique and indispensable position as a mediator, maintaining robust relationships with both the West and Russia.
Türkiye’s actions are guided by strategic imperatives such as preserving regional stability, securing trade routes, and ensuring energy security. These priorities underpin its active
mediation efforts in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. With 260 diplomatic and consular missions, Türkiye demonstrates its determination to monitor international developments closely and contribute actively to their resolution. This approach reflects Türkiye’s enduring foreign policy principles, rooted in Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s vision of “Peace at Home, Peace in the World.” Through this lens, Türkiye positions itself as both a protector of national interests and a proactive advocate for global peace and stability.
This discussion paper examines Türkiye’s delicate balancing act, exploring its relations with Ukraine and Russia, its mediation initiatives, and the broader implications of agreements like the Black Sea Grain Initiative. It delves into Türkiye’s ties with Ukraine, its complex dynamics with Russia, and key diplomatic engagements, offering a detailed assessment of Türkiye’s evolving role in this conflict. Since 2010, Türkiye has prioritised mediation in its foreign policy, leveraging its active roles in international organisations such as the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). This commitment, combined with its status as a Western ally and NATO member that maintains open channels with Russia, makes Türkiye a distinctive actor in global diplomacy. This dual engagement has enabled it to play a critical role in negotiations and mediation efforts, exemplified by the Black Sea Grain Initiative. By skilfully navigating this diplomatic tightrope, Türkiye contributes to de-escalation while enhancing its credibility as a balanced and reliable force on the global stage.
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