Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated support for the Russia-Ukraine ceasefire on Tuesday, emphasizing that NATO should not become part of the conflict. Earlier, both President Erdogan and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan received NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the Presidential Complex in Ankara for a closed-door meeting.

According to Anadolu Agency, the discussions during the meeting centered around the developments in the Ukraine-Russia war, as well as other global and regional issues. Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed unconditional talks in Istanbul on May 15 during a press conference in Moscow on Sunday. Erdogan later confirmed Trkiye's willingness to host the meeting, underscoring the nation's commitment to facilitating dialogue.

During the meeting, Erdogan highlighted Trkiye's dedication to NATO and announced that Trkiye would once again assume command of the NATO Kosovo Force, as stated by Trkiye's Communications Directorate. He stressed the importance of cooperation from NATO allies in combating terrorism and reassured that Trkiye remains committed to strengthening NATO amidst various challenges.

Erdogan further stated Trkiye's increased efforts to achieve a lasting and just peace in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, citing his meetings with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He expressed strong support for establishing a comprehensive ceasefire, emphasizing the significance of seizing the opportunity for peace.