Turkey in Talks with Russia, Ukraine on Black Sea Shipping Security
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Turkey has initiated dialogues with Russia and Ukraine concerning the potential creation of a system to safeguard ships navigating the Black Sea from attacks. A Turkish government source revealed that Ankara is actively pursuing this initiative, emphasizing that Turkey will not permit warships to transit its straits.
The source informed the Russian news agency RIA Novosti that Ankara is collaborating behind closed doors with Moscow and Kyiv to explore possible mechanisms designed to thwart attacks on shipping in the Black Sea. Both sides are reportedly evaluating potential approaches and standards for such a system, though specific details and final conditions have not yet been finalized.
Contacts between Ankara and Moscow regarding the situation in Ukraine persist across various levels, with both nations maintaining direct communication channels for urgent consultations. This communication is utilized for exchanging views and addressing immediate concerns as needed.
The source reiterated Turkey’s firm stance that it will not allow warships to pass through Turkish straits. Ankara is closely monitoring adherence to the Montreux Convention, making it clear that no violations will be tolerated.
