Erdoğan Confirmed Talks with Putin and Trump
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan confirmed during a press briefing after Friday prayers at Hacı Ali Mosque in Istanbul that he would hold talks with Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump this week. He announced efforts to bring the two leaders together in Istanbul: “We will hold talks with Mr. Putin and Mr. Trump this week and will work to gather the leaders in Istanbul.”
Critical Situation in Forest Fires
Referring to widespread forest fires in various regions of Turkey including Karabük, Antalya, and Uşak, the President reported the deployment of 27 water bomber aircraft, 105 helicopters, 6,000 ground vehicles, and 25,000 operational personnel. He described the death of 10 people (5 forestry personnel and 5 volunteer rescue workers) in the Seferihisar, İzmir incident as “tragic,” adding: “They were trapped in a ring of fire and couldn’t save themselves. May God be our helper.”
4-Fold Growth in Turkish Defense Industry
Speaking at the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), Erdoğan highlighted achievements in the sector: “Our defense industry’s capacity has risen from $20 billion at the start of our government’s term to $80 billion today. International orders have also gained significant momentum.” He emphasized that developing this industry is “a prerequisite for Turkey’s survival in global competition.”
Background of Russia-Ukraine Talks
The President referenced Turkey’s recent hosting of Russia-Ukraine talks at Çırağan Palace, stating that prior to the negotiations, the Ukrainian delegation had met with him in Ankara, and he had also held talks with Putin.
