site.btaTurkiye's Ministry of Defence on Sending Peacekeeping Forces to Ukraine: Ceasefire Must Come First

According to Turkiye’s Ministry of Defence, a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine must be achieved before discussions can begin on the framework of a possible peacekeeping mission and the contributions of individual countries, Turkish television channel TRT Haber reported, citing statements made by Ministry representatives during the regular weekly press conference in Ankara. 

“Turkiye works to create peace and stability in the region and seeks to contribute through all possible means in that direction, but first the fighting between Russia and Ukraine must stop. Only after that can the mission's tasks and goals be determined, as well as what contribution each country will make,” said a Ministry representative, adding that it is still too early to make such an assessment. 

The press conference also addressed Syria’s request for support to enhance its security and defence capabilities through training, consultation, and technical assistance. 

On August 13, Syria and Turkiye signed a Memorandum for Joint Training and Consultations. It aims to increase Syria’s defence capacity and strengthen military cooperation. The restructuring of the Syrian Armed Forces is progressing rapidly. Visits have already begun in the context of providing technical support, training, and consultations under the agreement. These activities are being carried out in coordination with Syria’s Ministry of defence. In order to enhance Syria’s defence capacity, on-site needs will be assessed and a joint roadmap will be developed, the Ministry stated.  

Ministry spokesperson Zeki Akyurek also commented on the army’s current operations and activities related to counter-terrorism efforts. He invited all Turkish citizens to the Teknofest exhibition in Istanbul, which will take place on August 30 and 31.