Turkey News

Ukraine and Russia have engaged in a second round of negotiations in Istanbul aimed at facilitating a large-scale prisoner exchange and discussing a potential ceasefire. According to Turkish diplomatic sources, the talks concluded with “good progress on the humanitarian front,” although no agreement was reached on Ukraine’s demand for an unconditional ceasefire. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov highlighted a new approach for the prisoner exchange, which will categorize prisoners rather than focus solely on numbers. The exchange will prioritize “severely wounded or critically ill prisoners” and young soldiers aged 18 to 25, implementing a system of 1,000 for 1,000. Additionally, both sides agreed to exchange 6,000 bodies of fallen soldiers. Amid these developments, Ukraine presented a list of children reportedly deported to Russia during the conflict, with Umerov emphasizing their return as a fundamental priority. However, the Russian delegation, led by Vladimir Medinsky, denied allegations of systematic abduction. The negotiations on a ceasefire are complicated by Russia’s stipulations, including a halt to Western military support for Ukraine.

In a significant diplomatic effort, Turkish officials hosted the first direct talks between Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Istanbul on May 16, 2025, since the onset of the war. Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized the urgency of achieving a ceasefire “as soon as possible.” Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not attend the meeting, delegating aide Vladimir Medinsky to represent Moscow instead. U.S. President Donald Trump defended Putin's absence, stating, “Why would he go if I’m not?” Trump further claimed that a meeting between himself and Putin is essential for any peaceful resolution. Ukrainian officials reiterated their demand for an unconditional ceasefire, while NATO Chief Mark Rutte criticized Russia’s choice to send a lower-level delegation, labeling it a “big mistake.” EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced forthcoming sanctions against Moscow, reflecting the heightened tensions and differing perspectives of Western leaders on the ongoing conflict.

Russia and Ukraine are set to hold their first direct peace talks in three years on Friday, brokered by Turkey in Istanbul, amid expectations of limited progress, according to officials. A Ukrainian delegation led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov is scheduled to meet with a lower-level Russian team headed by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky. The talks come after Russian President Vladimir Putin declined a face-to-face meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who criticized Russia's negotiating team as insufficient for serious discussions. Despite Zelenskyy's offer for a U.S. and European-backed 30-day ceasefire, Russian officials have imposed strict conditions that effectively reject the proposal. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed the necessity of a meeting with Putin to help resolve the deadlock. In preparation for the talks, Ukrainian officials coordinated with national security advisers from the U.S., France, Germany, and the UK. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated low expectations for significant outcomes, suggesting that a breakthrough might only arise from discussions between Trump and Putin.

In a significant development, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has announced plans to disband and cease armed operations, signaling a potential end to its prolonged conflict with Turkey. The announcement was made via the Firat News Agency on May 12, 2025, during a peace initiative with the Turkish government. This resolution follows a party congress held in northern Iraq, where PKK leaders convened to chart the organization’s future. The congress, which took place shortly before the announcement, resulted in what the group described as a "historic" decision. A statement from imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan was presented during the meeting, reflecting his advocacy for disarmament and dissolution of the group, aiming to conclude a conflict that has reportedly resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities since the 1980s. The PKK, which is regarded as a terrorist organization by Turkey and several Western nations, previously announced a ceasefire but stipulated that peace talks must establish a legal framework before full disbandment occurs. The organization emphasized that the Kurdish population will welcome the decision to embrace peace.

The Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) has announced its decision to disband and formally end its armed conflict against the Turkish state, marking a significant shift in its 40-year history. The announcement was made following the conclusion of the PKK's 12th Congress held last week in northern Iraq, where the group has been based, according to Firat news agency. In a closing declaration, the PKK stated, "The PKK 12th Congress decided to dissolve the PKK's organizational structure and end the armed struggle." This move comes after a February appeal from Abdullah Ocalan, the group's founder, who has been imprisoned since 1999. Turkish officials have called the disbandment "historic" and "important," suggesting that it could pave the way for peace and stability in the region. The PKK has been involved in a long-standing insurgency that has resulted in significant casualties and unrest in Turkey and surrounding areas. The disbandment is seen as a potential turning point in Kurdish-Turkish relations.

A powerful 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck Istanbul on April 23, 2025, according to Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). The quake, one of the strongest in recent years, occurred at 12:49 PM local time, with its epicenter in Silivri, approximately 80 kilometers west of the city. It reached a depth of about 6.92 kilometers. While there were no immediate reports of widespread damage, the quake prompted residents to evacuate buildings as it shook the metropolis of 16 million people, situated on both the European and Asian coasts of the Bosphorus Strait. However, a local broadcaster reported that one individual sustained injuries after jumping from a balcony during the tremor, which coincided with a public holiday in Turkey. The German Research Centre for Geosciences measured the quake's magnitude slightly lower at 6.0 and noted a depth of 10 kilometers. AFAD has advised caution, warning residents against entering any damaged structures in the aftermath of the earthquake.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for the destruction of Israel during his Eid al-Fitr prayer on March 30, 2025, at the Grand Camlica Mosque in Istanbul. Speaking to attendees, Erdogan stated, “May Allah damn Zionist Israel,” as reported by Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency. Erdogan addressed the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, expressing his solidarity with Palestinians. He emphasized the high civilian casualties in Gaza, lamenting, “The genocide taking place in Gaza... will tear the hearts of anyone with a shred of conscience.” He criticized the international community, particularly Western countries, for their perceived inaction, stating that such negligence emboldens oppressors. The remarks drew sharp criticism from Israeli officials, including Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who labeled Erdogan’s statements as antisemitic and a threat to regional stability. Sa’ar urged NATO members to recognize Erdogan's dangerous rhetoric before it becomes too late to mitigate its impact. The heightened tensions signal an ongoing geopolitical strain as Turkey continues to voice strong opposition to Israel's actions in Gaza.

Ekrem Imamoglu, the Mayor of Istanbul, has been jailed on corruption charges following a court ruling that has ignited widespread protests across Turkey. Supporters gathered outside the municipality headquarters, responding to Imamoglu's call on social media to rally for "truth, law, justice." According to reports, several thousand demonstrators were present, expressing their discontent with the ruling, which Imamoglu described as “political and unlawful” and indicative of the current political climate in Turkey. Imamoglu, who is a member of the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), has previously been viewed as a significant challenger to the ruling government. His arrest has sparked concerns about judicial independence in the country. Protesters have taken to the streets to voice their support for the mayor and to demand accountability from the government. "We will not bow down," Imamoglu asserted, calling for resistance against what he deemed unjust political actions. These developments come amidst a period of intensifying political unrest in Turkey, as authorities continue to grapple with dissent and criticism.

Istanbul's Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu has been jailed pending trial after a Turkish court sentenced him to two years and seven months in prison for insulting public officials. İmamoğlu, who gained prominence after winning the municipal election in 2019, criticized the ruling as political and unlawful, claiming it highlights the current state of affairs in Turkey. Following the verdict, thousands of supporters gathered outside the municipality’s headquarters, chanting slogans like "Truth, law, justice." The protests erupted as İmamoğlu called on his followers via Twitter to demonstrate their support. This incident has intensified existing tensions in Turkey, where political dissent is increasingly met with crackdowns. İmamoğlu's sentences require confirmation from an appeals court, but his arrest has already catalyzed protests across the nation, reflecting growing discontent with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s government. Analysts warn that such developments could have far-reaching implications for the political landscape in Turkey.

The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has announced a ceasefire in its 40-year conflict with Turkey, responding to a recent call from its jailed leader, Abdullah Öcalan, to disarm and dissolve. The ceasefire takes effect immediately, with the PKK stating that its forces will not engage in armed action unless provoked. Öcalan, who has been imprisoned since 1999, urged the group to cease hostilities in a letter read to supporters in Istanbul, declaring it a pivotal moment for peace efforts in the region. The announcement comes after over 7,000 people have died in conflict-related violence since a previous ceasefire collapsed in 2015. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed Öcalan’s message as a potential breakthrough, although his government has dismissed the idea of resuming negotiations. The PKK's executive committee expressed agreement with Öcalan's call but emphasized the need for a supportive political environment for successful disarmament. The PKK's move could influence Kurdish groups across the Middle East, as the dynamics in the region shift amid growing pressure on Kurdish-led forces in Syria.

The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), considered a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union, has declared a ceasefire with the Turkish government following a significant appeal from its jailed leader, Abdullah Öcalan. This announcement, made on March 1, 2025, marks a potential turning point in a conflict that has lasted since 1984 and claimed over 40,000 lives, according to Agence France-Presse. The PKK's executive committee stated in a message to the pro-PKK ANF news agency, "In order to pave the way for the implementation of leader Apo's call for peace and democratic society, we are declaring a ceasefire effective from today." Öcalan’s recent request for the PKK to disband and cease violence came after years of stalled peace efforts, particularly following the collapse of negotiations in 2015. The PKK, representing around 20% of Turkey's 85 million population, aims to establish greater rights and autonomy for Kurds. This ceasefire signifies a possible move towards renewed dialogue, emphasizing the need for reconciliation after decades of violence.

On February 18, operations at Gaziantep Airport in Turkey were temporarily halted due to reports of an unidentified flying object (UFO) sighted by pilots at an altitude of approximately 3,048 meters (10,000 feet). The alert was triggered around 10 p.m., prompting the control tower to ground flights for about an hour while airport security investigated the incident, which reportedly did not show up on radar, according to local news sources. Following their investigation, airport officials concluded that the UFO was likely a drone being operated without authorization. Flights resumed around 11 p.m. Many social media users, however, remained skeptical about the explanation, with some online commenters suggesting the sighting might be evidence of extraterrestrial activity, declaring, "Open contact is definitely happening before 2027." The incident highlights ongoing concerns surrounding unidentified aerial phenomena, with an increase in reported sightings in various regions, as noted by Enigma Labs, which documented over 22,000 such occurrences in the past year.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned ongoing discussions between Russia and the United States in Saudi Arabia regarding the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing Ukraine's exclusion from talks about its own future. During an official visit to Turkey, Zelensky expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, "These talks are taking place between representatives of Russia and the United States about Ukraine – and without Ukraine,” according to reports. This criticism led Zelensky to postpone his planned trip to Saudi Arabia, rescheduling it for March 10. The move underscores Ukrainian concerns as discussions proceed without direct involvement. Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who welcomed Zelensky in Ankara, reiterated Turkey's commitment to facilitating future negotiations among the involved parties. Erdogan remarked, “Turkey will be an ideal host for any discussions between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States in the near future." Zelensky stressed the need for inclusivity in any resolution discussions, advocating for involvement from European nations, including Turkey, the EU, and the UK. He emphasized that conversations should be fair and aimed at establishing necessary security guarantees with the United States.

Turkish authorities arrested more than 280 individuals in a series of extensive operations targeting members of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that operations were conducted across 51 cities over the past five days, including major urban centers like Istanbul, Ankara, and the predominantly Kurdish city of Diyarbakir. According to Yerlikaya, the crackdown resulted in the detention of 282 "suspected members of terrorist organizations." These actions coincided with ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict with the PKK, which has been waging a campaign against the Turkish state since 1984 and is classified as a terrorist organization by Ankara and its Western allies. The Turkish government is reportedly considering the possibility of a premature release for Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the PKK, should he dissolve the organization and call on fighters to disarm. The situation remains tense as the government balances security measures with efforts toward a potential peace agreement.

Turkey has issued a stark warning about the dangers of bootleg alcohol following the deaths of 103 people in Ankara and Istanbul since January 2025, attributed to poisoning from illicitly produced beverages. The Independent reports that 70 fatalities occurred in Istanbul starting January 14, while 33 deaths were recorded in Ankara since January 1. Additionally, 230 individuals have been hospitalized, with 40 in critical condition, highlighting a severe health crisis linked to illegally sold alcohol. The dramatic increase in alcohol-related deaths is reportedly due to heightened prices from steep tax hikes imposed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's AK Party, which has led consumers and establishments to resort to homemade or bootleg alcohol. In response, Istanbul authorities announced measures to combat illegal sales, including mandatory surveillance cameras in liquor shops and the revocation of licenses for offenders. Law enforcement has arrested 24 individuals across both cities and seized over 100 tons of harmful substances. This issue arises as recent deaths in Laos due to methanol-tainted alcohol remind of the global problem of unregulated alcoholic beverages.

A shocking scandal has emerged in Turkey as allegations surface that medical professionals deliberately mismanaged the care of newborn infants for profit. Reports indicate that doctors and nurses may have manipulated treatment protocols, resulting in unnecessary fatalities among infants shortly after birth. According to Istanbul journalists Şebnem Arsu and Maximilian Popp, this misconduct has led to wide public outrage and questions surrounding possible involvement from officials within President Erdoğan's government. Protests have erupted in Istanbul, highlighting the growing concern that the healthcare system prioritizes profit over patient welfare. Activists have condemned the so-called "newborn mafia," pointing to systemic corruption that may have compromised medical ethics. The Turkish government has not yet provided a detailed response to these allegations, but the public's trust in healthcare is reportedly eroding as calls for accountability expand. The ramifications of this alleged scheme continue to unfold, leaving many families in mourning and raising urgent questions about regulatory oversight in the country's healthcare system.

Two years after the catastrophic earthquakes of February 6, 2023, which claimed over 60,000 lives and displaced millions in Turkey and northern Syria, recovery efforts are lagging. Only 201,580 out of the promised 319,000 new homes have been completed, according to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's office. As a result, approximately 500,000 people are still living in temporary shelters, including container cities that lack basic amenities and proper hygiene, as reported by the Association of Earthquake Victims of Hatay Province. Residents, like barber Sabahattin, struggle to survive amidst rubble, with business to support diminishing. Many families live in cramped conditions, forcing up to five people into 21-square-meter spaces, significantly smaller than their pre-quake apartments, he lamented. While some progress has been made with debris removal and new construction beginnings, the pace has not met initial expectations. Further compounding issues, a UNICEF study indicated that 43% of surveyed individuals exhibit symptoms of post-traumatic stress, highlighting the widespread psychological aftermath of the disaster.

Two years after a catastrophic 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkey, survivors continue to endure significant hardships. The January 6, 2023 disaster claimed over 53,000 lives and led to widespread destruction, displacing countless individuals from their homes. According to local reports, many survivors have yet to receive adequate support or housing, creating ongoing challenges in rebuilding their lives. The Turkish government and various non-profits have implemented recovery efforts, but progress has been slow, with many areas still in ruins. Survivors have expressed frustration and anger over bureaucratic delays and a perceived lack of urgency from authorities. Emre Karaca, a local resident, noted, “Our lives have changed forever, but the help we expected hasn’t come. We feel abandoned.” Earthquake recovery efforts emphasize infrastructure building and support services, but officials admit that substantial investment and coordination are still necessary to meet the needs of those affected. The plight of the survivors serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of natural disasters on communities.

Two years after the catastrophic earthquakes struck Turkey's southeastern region, only around 201,580 of the promised 319,000 new homes have been constructed, according to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The quakes, which registered magnitudes of 7.5 and 7.8, claimed over 60,000 lives and displaced millions. Currently, about half a million people remain in temporary shelters, generating widespread resentment among survivors. In Antioch, local barbershop owner Mr. Sabahattin, whose business used to thrive, now sees only a few customers due to the devastation surrounding him. He has lived in a cramped container for two years and expressed frustration at the lack of progress in rebuilding efforts. Most families now occupy makeshift accommodations, and many report deteriorating mental health, with 43% showing signs of post-traumatic stress, as per a UNICEF report. Despite visible construction activity, recovery efforts are limited, with the physical and emotional scars of the disaster still evident in communities shattered by loss and displacement. Relief organizations highlight the urgent need for adequate housing and mental health support.

Experts are raising alarms over the potential for a devastating earthquake in Istanbul, predicting that hundreds of thousands could die if proper precautions are not taken. According to Naci Görür, a prominent earthquake researcher, over 100,000 buildings in the city are at high risk of collapse due to inadequate safety measures. Turkey has struggled to prepare for future seismic events, even two years after experiencing significant earthquakes that devastated parts of the nation. Görür emphasized that neither local nor central authorities, nor the general public, fully grasp the severity of the threat. "Earthquake resilience measures in Turkish cities are insufficient," he stated. Geology professor Şükrü Ersoy echoed these concerns, noting that many at-risk structures remain unreinforced. Turkey's Urban Development Minister Murat Kurum warned that Istanbul would not withstand a major quake, with estimates indicating that 1.5 million residential and commercial buildings are at risk. The anticipated earthquake, likely centered around 15 kilometers from the city in the Marmara Sea, has a 60% probability of occurring with a magnitude above 7 by 2030, according to the Kandilli Observatory.

Istanbul has solidified its status as a global hub for hair transplants, boasting approximately 5,000 clinics and attracting health tourists from around the world. According to the Turkish tourism association Türsab, 1.5 million health tourists visited the country in 2023, making hair transplants the second most popular procedure. However, experts warn that Turkey's dominance in the market may be waning. Dr. Koray Erdogan, founder of ASMED clinic, notes that the industry has seen both triumphs and pitfalls, with reports of unsatisfactory results leading to a growing skepticism. Costs are also decreasing abroad, with European clinics offering similar procedures for around $2,000, reducing the incentive to travel to Turkey. Erdogan cites that while Turkey's innovative techniques once set it apart, the surge of affordable alternatives elsewhere may jeopardize its leading position. "The golden age in Turkey is coming to an end," he states. As patients increasingly share their experiences on social media, the need for quality assurance in this booming sector has never been more critical.

The world’s longest wind-powered cargo ship, the Neoliner Origin, was launched on January 31, 2025, at the Turkish port of Tuzla. Measuring 136 meters in length, the vessel is designed to carry up to 5,300 tonnes of freight using its two masts and 3,000 square meters of sails, significantly reducing carbon emissions in maritime transport. According to Jean Zanuttini, president of Nantes-based Neoline, by reducing its speed from 15 knots to 11 knots, the ship can cut fuel consumption and emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional vessels. With the maritime transport sector accounting for approximately 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, this innovative design addresses environmental concerns. The ship is set to embark on its maiden journey in summer 2025 to the French Atlantic port of Saint-Nazaire before initiating routes to North America, including the US port of Baltimore and Halifax in Canada. The construction received support from France's public investment bank and the shipping company CMA-CGM, with plans for additional similar ships in the future.

A devastating hotel fire in a ski resort located in Bolu, Turkey, has resulted in the deaths of 78 individuals, prompting authorities to take immediate action. Nineteen people, including the hotel owner, the manager, the local fire chief, and the deputy mayor of Bolu, have been placed in custody. A staff member from an inspection company is also being sought by authorities. The fire erupted on January 22 at a ski hotel that housed over 230 guests. Many victims attempted to escape by tying bedsheets together or jumping from windows, but tragically, many could not escape the flames. The incident has sparked widespread outrage due to alleged neglect of fire safety measures. In the aftermath of the tragedy, there has been a blame game between the Turkish central government and the opposition-led municipality of Bolu. The country has a concerning history regarding building safety standards, as evidenced by a recent building collapse in Konya, which resulted in two fatalities. In 2022, a nightclub fire in Istanbul claimed 29 lives, further highlighting ongoing safety issues in Turkey.

A devastating fire broke out early Tuesday morning at the Grand Kartal hotel in Kartalkaya, a popular ski resort in northwestern Turkey, resulting in the deaths of at least 76 people. The blaze, believed to have originated in the hotel's restaurant area, also left over 50 individuals injured, with some in critical condition, according to officials. The fire erupted around 3:27 AM local time during the winter school holiday, causing chaos among the 238 registered guests. Eyewitness accounts described scenes of panic, as many attempted to escape the flames, with some resorting to jumping from the building. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that 45 of the deceased have been identified, while search efforts continue for the remaining victims. The government has appointed six prosecutors to spearhead an investigation into the incident, and nine individuals, including the hotel's owner, have been detained for questioning. In response to the tragedy, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a day of national mourning and directed that flags at government buildings be flown at half-staff. Investigators are probing potential failures in the hotel's fire safety systems, as witnesses reported the fire alarm did not activate during the emergency. The incident has raised questions about compliance with fire safety standards, despite previous inspections reporting no issues. As investigations continue, neighboring hotels were evacuated as a precautionary measure.

In a remarkable archaeological discovery, experts in Turkey have unearthed approximately 2,000 fragments of bronze statues believed to have been sorted in an ancient scrapyard. The site, located within the ruins of the city of Metropolis, near modern-day Izmir, provides insight into the recycling practices of the Late Antiquity period. The fragments include a variety of body parts such as hands, feet, and even eyeballs. Archaeologist Serdar Aybek, leading the Heritage to the Future Project funded by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, described the discovery as “extraordinary.” He emphasized the significance of the site as a location where broken bronze statues were likely dismantled for reuse, possibly to be melted down to mint coins. The artifacts range from Hellenistic to Roman styles, indicating a diverse history of sculpture production in the region. As the late antiquity era transitioned away from polytheistic beliefs to monotheism, many bronze idols lost their spiritual significance, leading to their repurposing. Aybek theorizes that the majority of these pieces could have been intended for recycling in the city's robust bronze statue trade. This find sheds light on the economic practices of the time and adds a new layer of understanding to the cultural shift influencing material use in ancient societies.

A severe fire swept through a 12-storey hotel at the Grand Kartal ski resort in northwestern Turkey early Tuesday morning, resulting in the deaths of at least 66 people. The tragic incident occurred during a school holiday when the hotel was bustling with guests. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that the blaze broke out around 3:27 a.m., with firefighters arriving on the scene approximately 45 minutes later. Among the casualties, two victims perished after jumping from the building in desperation to escape the flames. Additionally, more than 51 individuals suffered injuries, with at least one categorized as in serious condition. Guest Atakan Yelkovan recounted scenes of chaos as many tried to flee, with some attempting to lower themselves from upper floors using sheets. He reported that the hotel’s fire alarm system failed to activate, which compounded the dangers faced by those inside. The Turkish government has initiated an investigation, appointing six prosecutors to examine the fire's cause, which is suspected to have started in the hotel’s restaurant. Four individuals, including the hotel owner, have been detained for questioning. In a statement, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his condolences and assured that all necessary steps would be taken to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Meanwhile, precautions have been enacted to evacuate other hotels in the vicinity. Global Affairs Canada has stated that no Canadians are reported among the victims.

A tragic fire at the Grand Kartal hotel in Kartalkaya, Turkey, has resulted in at least 76 fatalities and injured 51 others. The blaze erupted around 3:30 AM local time in the hotel's restaurant, where more than 230 guests were staying. Eyewitness reports indicate that some guests jumped from windows to escape the flames. Four individuals, including the hotel owner, have been arrested following the incident as authorities investigate the cause of the fire. The Turkish Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, confirmed that of the injured, one is in serious condition while 17 others have since been discharged from hospitals. Guests reported hearing no fire alarms, and firefighting teams faced challenges reaching the hotel, which is situated on a cliff. Witness Atakan Yelkovan described the chaos as guests attempted to escape, some using sheets to descend. Emergency services dispatched 30 fire trucks and 28 ambulances to the scene, and other hotels in the area were evacuated as a precaution. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to ensure a thorough investigation and accountability for the disaster. The hotel had passed a fire inspection last year, raising questions about safety standards, particularly regarding the wooden cladding that may have facilitated the fire's spread.

The tragic fire at a ski hotel in Turkey has resulted in a confirmed death toll of 66, according to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. The blaze broke out overnight in the twelve-story hotel located in the popular winter sports destination of Kartalkaya, in the northwestern part of the country. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities work to uncover more victims. This devastating incident has shocked the nation and raised concerns about safety measures in tourist accommodations.

A devastating fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in the Turkish ski resort of Bolu has resulted in the deaths of ten people and injuries to 32 others, according to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. The blaze, which broke out at approximately 03:27 local time, occurred during a busy holiday period when the hotel had 234 guests. Initial reports indicate that the fire started in the restaurant area on the fourth floor and rapidly spread to the upper floors. Eyewitness accounts revealed that some guests, faced with intense smoke, resorted to jumping from windows to escape the flames. Bolu governor Abdulaziz Aydin reported that efforts to combat the fire were hampered by the hotel's distance from the town center and freezing weather, which delayed the arrival of fire services by over an hour. As a precaution, nearby hotels were evacuated. Rescue operations continued through the morning, with 267 emergency personnel mobilized to the scene. The circumstances that led to the outbreak of the fire are still under investigation, and prosecutors have been assigned to look into the incident. Local ski instructor Necmi Kepcetutan described the harrowing scenes, stating that he helped rescue approximately 20 to 25 people. The Bolu mountains are a popular destination for skiers, especially during the current two-week school holidays.

A five-month-old gorilla, named Zeytin, was recently rescued from the cargo hold of a Turkish Airlines plane and is recovering at Polonezkoy Zoo near Istanbul. The young gorilla was found in a box at Istanbul Airport during a customs check, as he was being transported illegally from Nigeria to Thailand. Following his rescue, Zeytin was taken to the zoo to recover from the traumatic journey. Fahrettin Ulu, the regional director of Istanbul Nature Conservation and National Parks, expressed hopes that the baby gorilla could eventually be returned to his natural habitat. "What we want and desire is for the baby gorilla to continue its life in its homeland," he stated. Veterinarian Gulfem Esmen reported Zeytin's progress, noting he has become more playful and less shy since his arrival at the zoo. Both the western and eastern gorilla species are classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, highlighting the ongoing issue of illegal wildlife trafficking. Istanbul has emerged as a key air hub, leading to increased interceptions of trafficked animals, with notable recent finds including 17 young Nile crocodiles and 10 monitor lizards in an Egyptian passenger's luggage at Sabiha Gokcen Airport.

In a decisive statement, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan ruled out any involvement of French troops in Syria, emphasizing that the United States remains Turkey's sole interlocutor in the region. Speaking to reporters in Istanbul on January 10, 2025, Fidan accused France of disregarding Turkey’s security concerns and urged the country to repatriate its jihadist nationals currently held in Syria. Fidan's remarks come amid rising tensions as Turkey contemplates military action against Kurdish fighters, specifically the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which played a crucial role in defeating ISIS in 2019. While Western nations, including the US and France, are keen to prevent Turkey from intensifying its offensive against the SDF, Turkey views the Kurdish forces as a significant threat due to their connections with the PKK, a group classified as terrorist in Turkey. “The US is our only interlocutor,” Fidan stated, dismissing any potential deployments of French or additional foreign troops to the region. He added that Turkey possesses the strength and determination to neutralize threats to its safety independently. The SDF currently manages multiple prisons in northeastern Syria housing thousands of jihadists, including several French nationals. Fidan criticized France for not taking responsibility for its citizens, asserting that it ignored Turkey's security issues entirely. He reiterated, “What France should do is take back its own citizens, bring them to its own prisons and judge them,” advocating for direct action over reliance on the SDF to manage foreign fighters. Fidan's comments highlight the ongoing complexities in the region as Turkey seeks to ensure stability while managing external perceptions of its military actions.

The year 2024 has officially been declared the warmest year on record, with global temperatures exceeding the crucial 1.5-degree Celsius threshold above pre-industrial levels for the first time. A report from major climate monitoring organizations, including the World Meteorological Organization and NASA, confirmed that the average global temperature reached 15.10°C, surpassing the previous record set in 2023. Leading climate scientists have emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change, stating, "The future is in our hands," as they urge for swift action to mitigate further warming. The recently released data indicates a concerning trend, with every year since 2015 ranking among the ten warmest years recorded. This new record not only reflects recent measurements but also suggests a dramatic rise in temperatures not seen in thousands of years, potentially dating back at least 11,000 years according to paleoclimatological studies. The significant temperature increase is linked to greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel use, and current emissions levels show no sign of decreasing. The data also revealed that 2024 witnessed unprecedented atmospheric conditions, including record levels of water vapor, leading to extreme weather events around the globe. The Copernicus Climate Change Service reported a worrying rise in thermal stress, affecting a substantial portion of the planet's surface. Despite efforts to stabilize the climate, existing commitments to reduce emissions are inadequate, warning that the world may exceed the Paris Agreement's safety threshold of 2°C by the century's end. Meteorologists, while acknowledging these alarming trends, also suggest that with renewed commitment and policy changes, there is still hope for limiting future temperature increases.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan announced on Sunday that Syria's new leadership is committed to eliminating separatists within its borders. This statement follows military actions by Turkey, which reported the "neutralization" of 32 members of the PKK (Kurdistan Workers Party), a group deemed as terrorists by Ankara. The region has experienced increasing tensions since a rebellion by groups affiliated with Turkey resulted in the ousting of Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad last month. In the aftermath, Turkey-backed Syrian forces have faced off against U.S.-backed Kurdish forces in the north. The situation continues to develop as both parties navigate the complex and shifting dynamics of power in the region.