Erdogan to visit Ukraine on 3 February in efforts to ease tensions

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He said plans are also under way for Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit Turkey after the Winter Olympic Games, which will be held in China between February 4th and February 20th.

“We expect both talks to be effective in reducing tensions between Russia and Ukraine,” said the official, requesting anonymity, Reuters writes.

Last week, Erdogan said that if Russia were to attack Ukraine, Turkey would do what is needed as a NATO member.

Ankara has good ties with Kiev and Moscow, but opposes Russian policies in Syria and Libya, as well as annexing the Crimean Peninsula in 2014.

While strengthening co-operation with Russia for defence and energy, Ankara has also sold sophisticated fears to Ukraine.