Ukraine Ambassador calls for Black Sea peace and Turkish mediation

Ukraine’s Ambassador to Ankara, Neriman Celal, has emphasized that the Black Sea should serve as a sea of peace and trade rather than a battlefield. She warned that risks to civilian maritime transport are increasing and called for a limitation of attacks to prevent further escalation. Celal expressed Ukraine’s readiness to support Turkey’s moratorium initiative, which aims to halt mutual attacks on civilian ships, commercial ports, and energy infrastructure.

During a press conference marking the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, Celal discussed the ongoing conflict, noting that while the situation on the front lines remains difficult, Ukrainian counter-operations have reclaimed approximately 745 square kilometers of territory. She stated that Ukraine is prepared for an “immediate, unconditional, and comprehensive ceasefire” and remains open to diplomatic solutions.

Celal highlighted Turkey’s significant role as a mediator and suggested that peace negotiations could potentially take place in Turkey, involving the mediation of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and President Donald Trump. She reaffirmed the strategic nature of the relationship between Ukraine and Turkey, noting that Turkey was among the first states to recognize Ukrainian independence.