Turkiye President Erdogan and Vladimir Putin Hold Crucial Phone Call:In a key diplomatic development on July 18, 2025, Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a comprehensive phone conversation addressing the escalating crisis in Syria, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and the future of Russia-Türkiye relations.
Turkiye President Erdogan and Vladimir Putin Hold Crucial Phone Call on Syria Crisis
On July 18, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan engaged in a wide-ranging telephone conversation to discuss pressing regional and global issues, particularly focusing on the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
The two leaders conducted an in-depth exchange of views regarding the current situation in the Middle East, particularly the sharp escalation of violence in Syria. Both expressed grave concern over the deteriorating conditions in the country. They emphasized the urgent need to stabilize the situation through political dialogue and the promotion of national accord. The presidents highlighted the importance of respecting the rights of all segments of Syria’s multi-confessional society while underlining Syria’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
The issue of Syria’s Sweida region was specifically addressed, following recent clashes that erupted after the withdrawal of Syrian security forces. Both sides agreed that the unrest in Sweida posed a serious threat to the entire region. President Erdogan underscored the importance of preventing any violation of Syria’s sovereignty, particularly referencing Israel’s role, and reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to ensuring Syria’s stability, security, and recovery.
On the Ukraine conflict, President Putin reaffirmed Russia’s principal commitment to a political and diplomatic resolution. He also expressed appreciation for President Erdogan’s ongoing efforts to mediate the conflict, particularly his readiness to facilitate direct talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul. Erdogan emphasized the significance of launching a third round of negotiations between the two nations and confirmed Türkiye’s willingness to host the talks once the parties agree on suitable dates.
Beyond regional conflicts, the leaders also reviewed the status of bilateral relations. They praised the outcomes of the June 27, 2025 meeting of the Russia-Türkiye Intergovernmental Commission for Trade and Economic Cooperation, calling it a success. The call also covered broader regional and global matters, reflecting the growing strategic coordination between Ankara and Moscow.
Both leaders concluded their conversation by agreeing to maintain regular contact on the matters discussed, signaling a continued commitment to cooperative diplomacy.
Here are the key points from the Russian, Turkish, and Kremlin readouts of the July 18, 2025 phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
- Middle East Situation and Syria Escalation
The two leaders held a detailed exchange of views regarding current developments in the Middle East, including the worsening situation in Syria. - Concern Over Violence in Syria
Both presidents expressed deep concern about the recent surge in violence in Syria and stressed the need for swift stabilization. - Call for National Dialogue in Syria
They emphasized that Syria’s situation must be stabilized through dialogue and by strengthening national reconciliation. - Respect for Rights of All Communities
The leaders underlined the importance of respecting the legitimate rights of all representatives of Syria’s multi-confessional society. - Support for Syria’s Sovereignty and Integrity
Both sides reaffirmed the need to respect Syria’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. - Ukraine Conflict Discussion
President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to a political and diplomatic resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. - Thanks to Türkiye for Mediation Efforts
Putin thanked Erdogan for his continued willingness to facilitate direct Russia-Ukraine negotiations in Istanbul. - Bilateral Relations and Economic Cooperation
The presidents also discussed various current issues concerning the further development of Russia-Türkiye bilateral relations. - Positive Review of Trade Commission Meeting
In particular, they positively assessed the meeting of the Russia-Türkiye Intergovernmental Commission for Trade and Economic Cooperation held on June 27, 2025. - Agreement to Maintain Contact
Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan agreed to stay in regular contact on all the topics discussed during the conversation.
The July 18, 2025, phone call between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan highlighted the growing strategic coordination between Russia and Türkiye amid complex regional and global challenges. From the escalating crisis in Syria to the continuing war in Ukraine, both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to diplomacy, regional stability, and sovereignty. The conversation also underscored their intent to further strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade and economic relations. By agreeing to stay in close contact, Putin and Erdogan signaled a continued diplomatic partnership in addressing evolving geopolitical developments.