Ukraine Prepares for Erdogan Visit Amid Free Trade Deal Push

Ukraine is actively preparing for a visit from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who was personally invited by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, according to Ukraine's Ambassador to Turkey, Nariman Dzhelyal. The main focus of Erdogan's visit is expected to be the ratification of a free trade agreement between Ukraine and Turkey, which is seen as a significant step for strengthening bilateral economic ties and strategic partnership. While the agreement is important for many Ukrainian businesses, it may also create tensions due to increased competition, but ratification remains a political decision. Organizing the visit faces considerable challenges, with multiple issues complicating its realization, necessitating significant diplomatic efforts. No official date for the visit has been announced yet, but the ratification during Erdogan’s visit is viewed as a symbolic move to deepen cooperation between the two countries. Additionally, Ukraine's ambassador emphasized that Turkey cannot consider Russia a strategic ally, highlighting the regional implications tied to the ongoing conflict.