Russian FM: Gaza situation hinders Türkiye-Syria normalization prospects

Addressing reporters after attending the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Lavrov underscored Russia's commitment to advancing the normalization of relations between Türkiye and Syria. However, he noted that practical steps toward normalization are currently unattainable due to the circumstances in Gaza, according to Russia’s Novosti news agency.

Lavrov emphasized that developments in the Gaza Strip and other Palestinian territories directly impact all parties involved in the normalization process. He highlighted incidents in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, along with American airstrikes targeting Iran-affiliated forces, as additional factors diverting attention from constructive relationship-building between Syria and Turkey.

In response to speculation about an imminent meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Moscow, a source within the Turkish presidency refuted the rumors. The source clarified that there were no known plans for a meeting between Erdogan and Assad in Moscow.

This statement followed a report suggesting a potential gathering between Erdogan and Assad in Moscow, purportedly at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. (ILKHA)