Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has affirmed Ukraine’s commitment to strengthening its security and economic ties with Turkey, describing the nation as a key partner in ensuring stability and cooperation.
Zelenskyy made the remarks on Thursday, expressing Kyiv’s readiness to ratify a free trade agreement with Turkey as part of efforts to deepen bilateral relations.
Turkey, a NATO member, has maintained balanced ties with both Kyiv and Moscow since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. While Ankara has provided military support to Ukraine and backed its territorial integrity, it has also refrained from imposing sanctions on Russia.
During a meeting in Kyiv with Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat and Agriculture Minister Ibrahim Yumakli, Zelenskyy discussed various aspects of collaboration, including drone production and the role of Turkish firms in Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts.
“It is important that Turkish businesses are already present in Ukraine. Our country appreciates this, as well as Türkiye’s support and assistance, particularly the supply of Bayraktar drones.
“Ukraine considers Türkiye one of its strategic partners, as well as a partner in terms of security guarantees, and is ready to ratify the Free Trade Agreement with Türkiye during President (Tayyip) Erdogan’s upcoming visit,” Zelenskyy stated on X.
The Ukrainian leader’s comments signal a strong push for greater economic and defense cooperation between the two countries, reinforcing Turkey’s role in Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to rebuild and secure its future.
