Turkey signals willingness to take leading role in Black Sea security

(Horizon Weekly) — Turkey has indicated its readiness to assume a central role in ensuring security in the Black Sea following the conclusion of the Russia Ukraine war, according to statements made during a high level summit held in Paris.

The meeting brought together members of the “Coalition of the Willing” to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire. Representatives from several countries attended, including Turkey, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Speaking at the summit, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Ankara is prepared to take full responsibility for maritime security mechanisms in the Black Sea once peace is established. He noted that Turkey has the largest naval fleet in the Black Sea among NATO member states, describing this role as both natural and practical.

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed Turkey’s readiness, highlighting Ankara’s involvement in broader efforts to ensure regional stability following the war. Macron also outlined a proposed post-ceasefire security framework, under which the United States would oversee the monitoring mechanism to ensure compliance.

Britain and France, for their part, have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a military presence and provide intelligence support in Ukraine should a peace agreement be reached. European and American representatives at the summit reportedly reached a general understanding on the structure of security guarantees to be implemented after hostilities end.

US President’s special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed confidence that the war in Ukraine is approaching its conclusion, stating that discussions at the summit reflected the belief that a post conflict security arrangement is now within reach.

The Paris talks signal growing coordination among NATO members and allied states as they seek to define the security architecture of the Black Sea region and Ukraine’s future position within it once the war concludes.