Kremlin announces Putin's upcoming visit to Turkey

Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, Yuriy Ushakov, has confirmed that President Vladimir Putin's visit to Turkey is scheduled for February. In a press conference, responding to inquiries about the visit, Ushakov stated, "Yes, preparations are underway for the visit."

"Ukraine Issue to be a Key Topic"

According to Sputnik, Ushakov suggested that the possibility of restarting Ukraine peace negotiations in the Istanbul format might be discussed by Putin and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. He said, "I can say that the Ukraine issue will be one of the main items on the agenda."

Ushakov noted that Russia is always ready for negotiations with Ukraine but lacks a counterpart. He emphasized that, while the Kremlin responds positively to requests from various countries, Kiev has prohibited negotiations with Moscow.

In his year-end program on December 14, Putin addressed his plans to visit Turkey, saying, "We are in constant contact with Mr. Erdoğan and share similar views. I am confident we will manage to meet. I had planned a visit recently, but it did not happen due to President Erdoğan's schedule. There's no secret here; I was ready to fly to Turkey and told him so, but it didn't happen due to our schedules. These things occur." He indicated that a consensus on a visit could be reached in early 2024.

Previously, the Turkish newspaper, citing its sources, had reported that the Russian President was expected to visit Ankara on February 12.

"Reports on Peace Negotiations with Ukraine are Incorrect"

Meanwhile, addressing Western media reports about Russia's readiness for peace talks with Ukraine, Ushakov clarified, "This is not true. We respond affirmatively to requests from various countries, indicating our readiness. We have been ready from the beginning. It is not us who halted these negotiations. We are ready, but there is no one to talk to, as the Ukrainian side has prohibited negotiations with the Russians."