Russia Rebuts Turkish President's Call for Crimea's Return to Ukraine

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov firmly rejected Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's assertion that Crimea should return to Ukrainian control. Erdogan emphasized Turkey's unwavering support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and the adherence to international law. The issue is a significant point of contention between Russia and Turkey, with the U.S. exerting pressure on Ankara.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has categorically dismissed Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's recent statement that Crimea should revert to Ukrainian control.

Erdogan had asserted that Turkey remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence, stipulating that the return of Crimea is mandated by international law. Responding to Erdogan's comments, Peskov stated that Crimea remains a major point of disagreement between Russia and Turkey.

'We have completely divergent opinions, but we continue to try to explain our stance to our Turkish counterparts,' Peskov said, noting that Erdogan is under evident pressure from the United States over Turkey's close economic ties with Moscow. The Kremlin announced that President Vladimir Putin might visit Turkey for discussions with Erdogan once all preparations are in place.

(With inputs from agencies.)