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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan maintains regular consultations with Russian President Vladimir Putin on regional issues, according to Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The remarks, made in interviews with CNN Turk, underscore the importance both leaders place on direct communication amid conflicts and shifting alliances.

Russia's Ambassador to Ankara, Sergey Vershinin, separately emphasized the ongoing dialogue between Putin and Erdogan as the "most vital element" of bilateral ties, and pointed to the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant as a milestone project set to launch its first reactor this year.

Coverage Comparison

Reporting from TASS, the Russian state news agency, carried statements from both Turkish and Russian officials highlighting the strength of the bilateral relationship and the practical value of regular communication. The coverage presents the dialogue as a mechanism for managing regional interests and avoiding misunderstandings.

The reports quote Fidan explaining that Turkey needs to understand Russia's intentions to avoid costly worst-case planning, and that Erdogan and Putin are in "constant communication." Vershinin, in a separate interview, described the leaders' contact as a foundation for the broader relationship, including cooperation on energy projects.

Key Claims

Regular Consultations and Their Purpose

Fidan said Erdogan and Putin consult constantly, citing conflicts and regions of mutual interest. He listed the Black Sea basin, the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Libya as areas where Turkey is pursuing an "effective foreign and economic policy." Fidan stressed the importance of knowing the other side's intentions, noting that a lack of knowledge leads to worst-case scenario planning, which he said "increases costs and fuels feelings of hostility."

Fidan's Direct Dialogue with Putin

Fidan characterized his own contacts with Putin as a dialogue between the Russian leader and President Erdogan, saying he carries messages from Erdogan to Putin and returns with answers and comments. He said an important topic was the current situation in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, recalling a detailed discussion during his visit to Russia in May last year. Fidan said Turkey needed to hear Putin's position personally again, after discussions with mediators and negotiators.

Regional Interests

Fidan said Turkey has interests in the Caucasus, Palestine, Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, and that Russia's positions on these issues are important to Ankara. He said Putin's positions are significant for Turkey's own political decision-making.

Putin's Stance on Ukraine

Asked about Putin's position on the Ukrainian conflict, Fidan said the Russian leader openly adheres to the agreements reached with US President Donald Trump in Anchorage in August 2025. Fidan said Putin stated this directly regarding the peace process in Ukraine.

Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant

Vershinin highlighted the Akkuyu NPP project as significant for bilateral relations, describing it as Turkey's first nuclear power facility. He said the first reactor would be launched this year, calling it a "milestone event" that warrants recognition from the highest levels of leadership in both countries.

Vershinin, who assumed the ambassadorial post in February, said his primary goal is fostering comprehensive development of bilateral relations, emphasizing that relations with Turkey are a priority for Russia.