Erdogan tells Zelensky attacks on merchant ships in Black Sea 'unacceptable'

ANKARA, September 24. /TASS/. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with Vladimir Zelensky in New York to discuss security issues in the Black Sea and the unacceptability of attacks on commercial vessels.

"President Erdogan emphasized that steps must be taken to ensure the safety of shipping in the Black Sea and that attacks on merchant ships cannot be justified. We expect responsible behavior from all parties in this context," the Turkish presidential office reported.

Speaking about the prospects for the negotiation process on the Ukrainian conflict, Erdogan pointed out that "Turkey is always ready to do everything in its power" to end the conflict "by establishing a lasting peace," and that the country "will continue its efforts to resume direct talks."

The Turkish leader also advocated for expanding cooperation with Ukraine in the defense industry, energy, and mineral extraction.

According to the presidential office, the Turkish delegation also included Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, National Intelligence Organization Director Ibrahim Kalin, and Defense Industries Directorate head Haluk Gorgun.