Istanbul: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Trkiye plans to facilitate a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Istanbul. This initiative is part of ongoing negotiations to address the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Erdogan shared this intention with reporters following Friday prayers in Istanbul.

According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan highlighted that discussions with both Putin and Trump will occur this week to explore the possibility of bringing the leaders together in Istanbul. This comes as Moscow and Kyiv recently engaged in their third round of negotiations in the city, exchanging proposals for advancing the peace process.

Erdogan also commented on the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) 2025 in Istanbul, emphasizing the fair's significant role on the global defense industry stage. He noted that Trkiye has begun to receive substantial defense orders, which continues to progress.

Erdogan underscored the importance of establishing a unique position in the defense industry to sustain success. He remarked on the growth of Trkiye's defense industry potential, which has expanded from around $20 billion to approximately $80 billion during his tenure, with aspirations for further strengthening.

The IDEF defense fair, which runs for six days, commenced on Tuesday and is taking place at various locations, including the Istanbul Fair Center and Ataturk Airport. The event is organized by KFA Fairs, supported by Trkiye's Defense Industries Secretariat and the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation, with Anadolu serving as the global communication partner.