Erdoğan believes that certain Western powers appear to be intent on escalating the Ukraine conflict into a world war.
Upon his return from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SGO) Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye expressed his optimism that peace could be achieved despite all that had transpired.
President Vladimir Putin of Russia had recently offered proposals to cease the hostilities in Ukraine, underscoring Moscow's commitment to dialogue. However, Ukraine and its Western supporters dismissed these proposals as unrealistic and disingenuous.
"Sadly, some Western countries and circles advocate a course of action that will lead to the outbreak of World War III," said Erdoğan.
Erdoğan pointed out that Western powers are still providing military assistance to Ukraine, accusing arms manufacturers of striving to sustain their agendas.
President of Türkiye stated: "Arms dealers require financing, and the Western market is the obvious destination for them."
Meanwhile, the Turkish President stated that he advocates for Russia's dialogue and a peaceful settlement of the conflict in Ukraine. He confirmed Ankara's vigilance about the conflict and expressed optimism that Kyiv and Moscow would soon reach a peace agreement.