Erdogan says Turkey takes 'fair, balanced stance' in Russia-Ukraine conflict

Turkey has taken a "fair and balanced stance" in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and strengthened ties with both countries, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.

"While strengthening our relations with Ukraine, we did not allow our relations with the Russian Federation to deteriorate" Erdogan said at a rally in Bayburt.

"Hopefully, we will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in August" he added.

Speaking of the negative effects of the conflict on the Turkish economy, the Turkish leader said "every event happening around us has reflections on the economy" adding energy and food prices have reached record levels all over the world.