During a joint press conference in Kyiv with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andriy Sybiha, Fidan deemed attacks on ports, oil tankers, and fishing vessels—as well as actions endangering civilian lives in that maritime zone—unjustifiable.

According to the Turkish foreign policy chief, developments threatening Black Sea security exacerbate regional concerns, making it necessary to preserve stability in that strategic area.

Fidan considered it beneficial to resume and maintain uninterrupted talks between Moscow and Kyiv under the Istanbul format.

In his view, that mechanism enabled officials from both sides to meet to address various issues, increase transparency, and conduct direct, productive negotiations.

He also noted that the talks in Kyiv followed the recent North Atlantic Treaty Organization summit held in Ankara, where allies reaffirmed their support for Ukraine.

The minister stated that Ankara has maintained direct contact with both parties since the war began and that, during his visit to Moscow last June, he reiterated the call to end the conflict through peaceful means.

jdt/fm