**Zelensky Appoints Formerly Imprisoned Crimean Tatar Activist as Ukraine’s Ambassador to Turkey**
In a significant move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed Nariman Dzhelial, a prominent Crimean Tatar activist, as the country’s ambassador to Turkey. This appointment comes at a critical time, with Zelensky set to travel to Turkey for direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul.
Dzhelial’s appointment is a testament to his dedication to the cause of liberating Crimea from Russian occupation. As the first deputy chairman of the Crimean Tatar Mejlis, he played a key role in building international support for the peninsula’s liberation through the Crimea Platform. However, his efforts were met with severe punishment by Russian authorities, who arrested and sentenced him to 17 years in prison.
Dzhelial was released from captivity last June as part of a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine. His appointment as ambassador to Turkey is a significant development, given Ankara’s role as a potential mediator in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Turkey has maintained diplomatic and economic ties with both nations, facilitating negotiations and grain exports while expressing willingness to participate in ceasefire monitoring.
**Dzhelial’s Appointment: A Symbol of Support for Crimea**
The appointment of Dzhelial as ambassador to Turkey sends a strong message from Zelensky about his commitment to the cause of liberating Crimea. As a representative of the Crimean Tatar people, Dzhelial’s experience and expertise will be invaluable in navigating complex diplomatic relationships.
Turkey’s involvement in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is crucial, given its strategic position and influence in the Black Sea region. By leveraging these assets, Turkey has facilitated negotiations and grain exports while expressing willingness to participate in ceasefire monitoring.
**The Road Ahead: Uncertainty Surrounds Talks**
Despite the significance of Dzhelial’s appointment, the status of the talks between Russia and Ukraine remains unclear. Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed at the last minute that he will not attend the meeting with Zelensky, casting uncertainty over the outcome.
Zelensky plans to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara before potentially traveling to Istanbul for further negotiations. The outcome of these talks will be critical in determining the course of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
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