Erdogan to Engage Putin on Ukraine Peace and Grain Deal After G20
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan is scheduled to hold a pivotal phone conversation with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, on Monday, November 24, 2025. The high-stakes discussion aims to advance peace efforts in Ukraine and explore the vital resumption of the Black Sea grain deal. This crucial initiative, previously facilitated by Turkey and the United Nations, allowed for the secure transit of grains through the Black Sea amidst the ongoing conflict.
Announcement from the G20 Summit
President Erdogan made this significant announcement during a press conference on Sunday, November 23, 2025, following his participation in the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. He underscored the 2022 Black Sea grain deal's initial success in fostering a path towards a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, acknowledging its subsequent suspension. "During the discussions we will have tomorrow, I will again ask Mr. Putin about this," Erdogan stated, emphasizing the potential benefits of revitalizing the agreement.
Turkey's Unique Diplomatic Stance
As a NATO member, Turkey has skillfully navigated a complex diplomatic landscape throughout the conflict. While extending military assistance to Kyiv, Ankara has notably refrained from aligning with Western sanctions against Moscow. This balanced approach has positioned Turkey as a crucial mediator, evidenced by its hosting of three rounds of peace talks in Istanbul and its standing offer to facilitate a leaders' meeting between the warring parties.
Beyond the Grain Initiative: Ending Fatalities
Beyond the immediate focus on the grain deal, President Erdogan also intends to discuss concrete strategies to "end the deaths" resulting from the conflict in Ukraine. He pledged to share the critical outcomes of his conversation with Putin with key European and U.S. leaders and allies. Although a 28-point draft plan for ending the war from Washington has been noted, Erdogan chose not to comment directly on its contents. This plan has reportedly raised alarms among Kyiv and European allies due to what they perceive as significant concessions to Russia, particularly as officials are currently meeting in Geneva for deliberations.
The Black Sea Grain Deal: History and Suspension
The Black Sea Grain Initiative, inaugurated in July 2022, played a vital role in enabling the safe export of nearly 33 million metric tons of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea, even amidst wartime conditions. Russia's decision to withdraw from the agreement in 2023 was justified by its claims of substantial impediments to its own food and fertilizer exports. These included alleged restrictions on payments, logistical challenges, and insurance barriers hindering shipments.
Recent Diplomatic Engagements
In the past week, President Erdogan welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to Ankara for discussions. His office further confirmed recent dialogues on the war in Ukraine with the leaders of France and Italy on Sunday. Erdogan reiterated his steadfast commitment to harnessing all diplomatic avenues to achieve a fair and lasting peace, suggesting that the resumption of talks in Istanbul could be instrumental in realizing this crucial objective.