These statements, reported by Anadolu Agency, were given by the Turkish leader on his return flight from the Netherlands, where he had participated in the NATO leaders’ summit in The Hague.

We strongly insist that this war must end.

The region can no longer tolerate it. A just and lasting peace must be built in the region, Erdoğan said.

He explained that Ankara prioritizes diplomacy for conflict resolution.

Even if everyone abandons peace, we will not, the ruler assured.

He clarified that Ukraine and Russia have repeatedly demonstrated their confidence in Turkiye and added that the negotiations held in Istanbul opened a door to peace.

According to Erdoğan, his country will work to reconcile the parties, even if that requires “digging a well with a needle,” and explained that his country’s ultimate goal is to hold a meeting of leaders and build the desired peace.

Last May 15-16, Istanbul hosted peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, which concluded with an agreement to exchange two thousand prisoners between the two countries.

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