Trump Seeks Erdogan’s Help to End Ukraine War

Global leadership dynamics are once again shifting as political veterans reenter the world stage. Personal ties and past negotiations may now shape the course of war and peace across Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

Trump and Erdogan Reopen Diplomatic Channel

Former President Donald Trump held a phone conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in which the two discussed the ongoing war in Ukraine, as reported by Digi24. Trump described the exchange as “very good and productive,” and stated that both leaders agreed to conduct future reciprocal visits—Erdogan to Washington, D.C., and Trump to Turkey.

The call covered a wide range of geopolitical issues beyond Ukraine, including the situations in Syria and Gaza. Trump emphasized his longstanding rapport with Erdogan, citing their prior collaboration to secure the release of American pastor Andrew Brunson, once imprisoned in Turkey.

Trump Pushes for Immediate Peace Talks

In a message shared via his Truth Social platform, Trump expressed eagerness to work with Erdogan “to end the ridiculous but deadly war between Russia and Ukraine – NOW!” His comments come as U.S. diplomacy appears increasingly strained.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently warned that the United States could step back from its mediation efforts unless meaningful progress is made toward a peace settlement. This reflects growing frustration within Washington as battlefield dynamics remain largely unchanged.

Realism Tempers Optimism

While Trump promotes direct engagement, he also acknowledged on May 4 that a peace deal may be “impossible” given the entrenched positions of both Kyiv and Moscow. Nevertheless, the outreach to Erdogan highlights Trump’s preference for personalized diplomacy, leveraging past relationships to drive high-stakes negotiations.

As the war drags on, renewed contact between key leaders could mark either a turning point—or yet another missed opportunity.