Rubio Seeks Turkey’s Support for Peace Initiatives in Ukraine

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to seek Turkey’s support for peace in Ukraine. The discussions also covered economic partnerships and regional stability while addressing human rights issues stemming from protests in Turkey. The dialogue reflects the effort to repair strained relations between the two nations amidst Turkey’s roles in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Syria.

On March 25, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held his inaugural meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Washington, where he solicited Turkey’s support for peace initiatives in Ukraine, as reported by the State Department. The two officials also discussed bolstering economic partnerships between the U.S. and Turkey, amidst efforts to reinforce their bilateral relations, which had experienced strain during the Biden administration.

Fidan’s visit to Washington aims to rebuild U.S.-Turkey relations following a recent transformative discussion between the presidents of both countries. Turkey has historically maintained close relationships with both Russia and Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict, attempting to mediate peace talks, notably hosting meetings in 2022 that did not yield results. Rubio and Fidan focused on establishing a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war, with Turkey expressing support for America’s initiatives in this regard.

During the meeting, Fidan hoped to address U.S. sanctions levied against Turkey and explore options for Turkey’s re-entry into the F-35 fighter jet program, from which it was expelled in 2019 due to Ankara’s acquisition of Russian defense systems. Meanwhile, the discussions did not prominently feature defense issues, according to U.S. statements, yet the importance of bilateral cooperation remained clear.

Amidst these discussions, President Erdogan faces national protests concerning the imprisonment of political dissidents. Rubio voiced apprehensions regarding the arrests and protests, referencing the need for attention to human rights issues in Turkey. Analyst perspectives suggest that previous American administrations’ leniency towards Ankara may have led to increased governmental oppression under Erdogan.

Additionally, Rubio and Fidan explored stability in Syria, where Turkey plays a significant role in supporting opposition forces against President Bashar Assad. Turkey’s government has committed to providing security and aiding in Syria’s reconstruction, emphasizing the need for a lasting ceasefire, including in Gaza, to enhance regional stability. Erdogan’s longstanding support for Hamas and vocal criticism of Israel’s actions remains a contentious aspect of Turkish foreign policy.

In summary, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has sought to engage Turkey in supporting peace efforts in Ukraine while simultaneously addressing economic partnerships. As Turkey navigates its complex relationships with both Russia and Ukraine, the discussions also touched upon critical regional stability issues and human rights concerns within Turkey. The outcome of these dialogues could determine the future trajectory of U.S.-Turkey relations amid regional dynamics.

Original Source: apnews.com