WASHINGTON/ANKARA – May 5, 2025 — In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a comprehensive phone conversation on Monday, addressing pressing international issues including the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Syria, as well as bilateral relations between the United States and Turkey.
President Trump characterized the discussion as “very good and productive,” highlighting the mutual interest in resolving ongoing conflicts. He noted that President Erdogan extended an invitation for him to visit Turkey, and reciprocally, Trump invited Erdogan to Washington, D.C. Specific dates for these visits have not been announced .
A central focus of the conversation was the ongoing war in Ukraine. President Trump expressed his eagerness to collaborate with President Erdogan to bring an end to what he described as the “ridiculous but deadly” conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He emphasized his commitment to resolving the war promptly, stating, “I look forward to working with President Erdogan on getting the ridiculous but deadly, War between Russia and Ukraine ended – NOW!” .
Turkey, maintaining diplomatic relations with both Russia and Ukraine, has previously hosted negotiations aimed at ending the war. President Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s support for U.S. efforts to facilitate a ceasefire and a lasting peace in the region .
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza was another critical topic. President Erdogan underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire, describing the situation as having reached a “grave level.” He emphasized the importance of uninterrupted humanitarian aid delivery and called for immediate action to alleviate the suffering of civilians in the region .
Regarding Syria, President Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s commitment to preserving the country’s territorial integrity and achieving lasting stability. He advocated for U.S. efforts to ease sanctions on Syria, suggesting that such measures would facilitate the normalization process and contribute to regional peace .
The leaders also discussed strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in the defense sector. President Erdogan expressed Turkey’s interest in enhancing cooperation with the United States, aiming to bolster strategic partnerships and address mutual security concerns .
This renewed engagement between Presidents Trump and Erdogan marks a potential turning point in U.S.-Turkey relations, signaling a willingness to collaborate on resolving complex international challenges and reinforcing diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Source; Al Jazeera
