Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations officially began in Istanbul, with Ukrainian President Zelensky arriving in Ankara to meet Erdoğan before the talks. Foreign Minister Fidan stressed both sides must "make concessions" for peace. The U.S. delegation will join Russian and Ukrainian teams on Friday.

A 5.2 magnitude earthquake shook Konya in the afternoon, felt strongly in Ankara. Experts including Naci Görür assessed its implications for regional fault lines.

Esila Ayık and two other student protesters detained during demonstrations following İmamoğlu's arrest were released, ending their months in detention. Journalist Furkan Karabay was arrested.

President Erdoğan continued emphasizing the "Terror-free Turkey" narrative following PKK's dissolution, stating "we will remove the half-century shackle" while affirming "our flag and language are never subject to discussion." The Ministry of Defense indicated a mechanism for weapons handover would be established.