Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Turkey for discussions with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, as confirmed by the Kremlin.
The talks, scheduled for later this month, aim to cover a broad spectrum of topics, including bilateral relations and pivotal regional concerns. While specific details of the meeting, such as the exact date, remain under wraps, it's expected that the two leaders will convene on February 12, according to various news reports.
Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin's spokesman, highlighted the frequent interactions between Putin and Erdogan, noting their routine telephonic conversations and regular face-to-face meetings throughout the year.
According to Rudaw, The upcoming visit is anticipated to address significant issues, including the dynamics of the Russia-Turkey relationship, economic ties, and trade, as well as pressing regional matters with a special focus on the situation in Ukraine.
This visit marks Putin's inaugural trip to a NATO country since the onset of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine two years ago. The meeting gains additional significance as Turkey recently approved Sweden's bid to join NATO, a move that sees Sweden and Finland shifting from their longstanding stance of military neutrality in response to the escalating situation in Ukraine.
The backdrop of the meeting is complex, given the International Criminal Court's issuance of an arrest warrant against Putin, which has constrained his international travel. However, Turkey's non-membership in the Rome Statute, the treaty establishing the court, facilitates Putin's visit, underscoring the nuanced diplomatic landscape amidst ongoing regional tensions.
