Turkish defense chief speaks with Russian counterpart, calling for immediate ceasefire in Ukraine

That’s according to a statement released by the Turkish Defense Ministry following the call between the Minister of National Defense of Turkey, Hulusi Akar, and Russia’s Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, Ukrinform reports.

"As our President has repeatedly stated, the importance of an urgent ceasefire to prevent further casualties and restore peace and stability in the region was emphasized," the Turkish minister said during the call.

The Turkish minister also reiterated Türkiye’s readiness to act as a mediator between the warring parties.

"It was reiterated that Türkiye, which is trying to provide all kinds of humanitarian aid, is ready to contribute to peace in the region, as it has done so far," the ministry said in a statement.

It is noted that the successful functioning of grain corridors was also discussed.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Türkiye is going to Astana today to attend the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) where he is expected to meet with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.