Turkey is evaluating a plan to evacuate civilians who are trapped in Ukraine amid Russia's attacks via the sea, Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said on Sunday.
“We exert significant efforts for the evacuation of all civilians struggling in Ukraine including Turkish citizens. We hope that as a result of our president’s talks, a cease-fire can be possible with the two leaders coming together,” Akar said during an iftar dinner to mark the breaking of the daily fast during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
With the war now in its second month, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has made repeated calls for a cease-fire between Russia and Ukraine and has encouraged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin to have a face-to-face discussion.
Turkey wants a cease-fire established, evacuations carried out and stability restored as soon as possible, Akar said, adding "We have done what we can to alleviate the humanitarian tragedy there (Ukraine).”
He also noted Turkey’s ongoing efforts for peace and that the country brought together the warring countries’ foreign ministers last month.
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