Erdogan Calls Russia's Decision Unacceptable

The President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has labeled Russia’s decision to recognize the independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics as unacceptable.

“Since the beginning of the crisis, we have sincerely sought to reduce tensions. In our Foreign Ministry's statement regarding the recent events, it was noted that Russia's decision to recognize the so-called Donetsk and Luhansk republics contradicts the Minsk agreements. It was emphasized that this decision is a blatant violation of Ukraine’s political unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We consider this decision by Russia to be unacceptable. We once again call on the parties to respect common sense and international law,” Erdogan stated to reporters aboard his plane after returning from an African tour.

The interview was published by the CNN Turk television channel on Tuesday.

Erdogan also mentioned that Turkey views positively the proposal by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to convene a UN Security Council meeting involving Ukraine, Germany, and Turkey. “If the proposal is implemented, we will certainly participate. Mr. Zelenskyy’s proposal is a positive approach. If the UN Security Council members and other countries agree with him, we will participate in that meeting,” the Turkish President said.