May
May Day celebrations unfolded with dual narratives - massive authorized rallies in Kadıköy and Kartal where "tens of thousands" gathered against the "one-man regime," while police arrested 409 people attempting to reach banned Taksim Square. The contrast between permitted and prohibited demonstrations revealed continuing tensions around Turkey's political geography.

The Istanbul Municipality corruption investigation continued with CHP's bus driver placed under house arrest. As politicians exchanged barbs, Minister Kurum told CHP leader Özel to "remove the blindfold from his eyes," while Minister Uraloğlu reaffirmed commitment to the controversial Canal Istanbul project.

In Northern Cyprus, TEKNOFEST opened with celebrations referencing the 1974 intervention, as Bayraktar called it "the seed of a fair world." The day ended with reports of an armed attack on CHP officials in Konya ahead of a planned rally, with conflicting accounts about the incident from authorities.
Following May Day protests that resulted in 418 arrests (up from 409 reported yesterday), attention shifted to a controversial incident involving a CHP bus driver allegedly driving toward police officers. Interior Minister Yerlikaya shared video footage, calling it "a threat to public order," while CHP officials disputed this characterization.

President Erdoğan made two significant public appearances: at an international energy summit where he declared Turkey's "strategic position in global energy," and at the International Green Crescent Federation Forum where he criticized opposition concerns about alcohol prices, saying they "worry about the price of raki, whiskey, beer."

Istanbul Mayor İmamoğlu, from prison, released a documentary titled "How the March 19 Coup Was Carried Out," referring to his imprisonment. Meanwhile, opposition leader Özgür Özel called for supporters to attend tomorrow's rally in Konya, where armed attacks on CHP officials had been reported yesterday.
A 4.0 magnitude earthquake in the Marmara Sea shook Istanbul in the morning, causing a balcony collapse in Bahçelievler with one person injured. The tremor, measured at 3.7 by AFAD and 4.0 by Kandilli Observatory, represents continued seismic activity following the major earthquake on April 23rd.

The day's most significant development was the death of DEM Party MP and Deputy Parliament Speaker Sırrı Süreyya Önder after 19 days in intensive care. Condolence messages poured in from across the political spectrum, including President Erdoğan, MHP leader Bahçeli, and even Abdullah Öcalan from prison.

President Erdoğan visited Northern Cyprus for the opening of the new KKTC Presidential Complex, emphasizing Turkey's continued support for the territory. The Foreign Ministry also clarified that Turkish airspace remains closed to Israel, contradicting reports that Netanyahu might use it for an Azerbaijan visit, which was subsequently postponed.
Thousands gathered to bid farewell to DEM Party MP Sırrı Süreyya Önder, who died after an 18-day health battle. The day's narrative shifted dramatically when CHP leader Özgür Özel was punched after attending Önder's memorial at Istanbul's AKM cultural center. The attacker was identified as Selçuk Tengioğlu, who had previous criminal convictions. The incident prompted widespread condemnation, including from President Erdoğan who called Özel to express good wishes.

Justice Minister Tunç addressed questions about how Tengioğlu had been released from prison despite serious charges. Meanwhile, MHP leader Bahçeli issued a carefully worded statement calling the attack "thought-provoking and chilling."

By evening, the CHP called supporters to gather at party headquarters at 9 PM in solidarity with Özel, while authorities announced an investigation into provocative social media posts about the attack.
The aftermath of yesterday's attack on CHP leader Özgür Özel dominated the news cycle. Authorities requested MASAK financial reports and phone records for attacker Selçuk Tengioğlu, while footage emerged showing him stalking Özel before the assault. The CHP revealed the attacker had received municipal assistance worth 8,000 lira.

A femicide in Istanbul's Şişli district shocked the nation when Bahar Aksu was murdered by her ex-husband during a kidnapping attempt. TÜİK reported inflation cooling to below 38% in April.

By afternoon, President Erdoğan spoke with Donald Trump in what both sides called a "productive" call, with mutual visits planned. Erdoğan later addressed urban renewal, stating "we can no longer waste time with anyone's caprices."

The AKP held its Central Executive Committee meeting, where spokesperson Ömer Çelik condemned the attack on Özel as "an attack on all of us."
The aftermath of the attack on CHP leader Özgür Özel continued with attacker Selçuk Tengioğlu being arrested in the morning. Özel returned to parliament for his party's group meeting, declaring "the child murderer cannot hurt me" to standing ovation.

Attention shifted midday when media reported Istanbul Mayor İmamoğlu's university diploma had been mysteriously deleted from Istanbul University's database. İmamoğlu filed a lawsuit challenging his diploma cancellation.

Law enforcement conducted major operations, with 208 arrests in a 47-province FETÖ operation and 27 detention orders in DEAŞ operations across seven provinces.

President Erdoğan visited MHP leader Bahçeli in the afternoon, signaling continued Cumhur alliance solidarity. Erdoğan later criticized street interviews, claiming "media is freer than before."

International tensions rose when India fired missiles into Pakistan, prompting retaliation threats. Turkish intelligence reportedly thwarted a second pager bomb plot in Lebanon.
India's missile barrage into Pakistan territory killed 26 people, prompting Turkey to warn of "full-scale war risk." Foreign Minister Fidan spoke with his Saudi counterpart while President Erdoğan held talks with Pakistan's Prime Minister Sharif.

Domestic politics remained dominated by the aftermath of the attack on CHP leader Özgür Özel. By evening, thousands gathered at Beyazıt Square for CHP's first rally since the assault, with Özel declaring "we're not afraid to walk the streets." The CHP bus driver who had confronted police during recent events now faces potential 13-year imprisonment.

Istanbul Mayor İmamoğlu continued battling diploma controversies, while the Constitutional Court rejected a petition to invalidate a law affecting animal rights. In legal developments, two more suspects were detained in the Minguzzi murder case, while President Erdoğan appointed Veysel Eroğlu as Special Representative to Iraq.
The blocking of İstanbul Mayor İmamoğlu's X (Twitter) account dominated morning coverage, with X's attorneys filing an objection to the court decision. By mid-morning, DEM Party confirmed reporting that a "device" had been placed in late MP Sırrı Süreyya Önder's vehicle before his death, suggesting an assassination attempt.

The digital restrictions theme expanded when Parliament's Digital Media Commission questioned Google representatives about algorithm changes affecting Turkish content, with Commission Chair Yayman declaring "if protecting society is censorship, then we are censors."

By afternoon, former CHP leader Kılıçdaroğlu was summoned to testify regarding the party's previous congress, continuing the judicial pressure on opposition figures. President Erdoğan hosted Iraqi Prime Minister Sudani, signing 11 agreements with focus on PKK counterterrorism cooperation.

International tensions received attention with Erdoğan expressing concern about Pakistan-India conflict potentially escalating to war, as Pakistan claimed to have downed 25 Indian drones.
The PKK announced it held its 12th congress on May 5-7, marking a potential turning point in Turkey's anti-terrorism efforts. This development dominated morning headlines, with multiple outlets reporting on DEM Party statements that the PKK's dissolution announcement was imminent. By midday, MHP leader Bahçeli called Ahmet Türk to congratulate him, signaling unprecedented political alignment on the Kurdish issue.

In a stunning evening revelation, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan disclosed he had survived an assassination attempt involving arsenic and mercury poisoning. This disclosure came hours after he stated that PKK laying down arms "would not be sufficient."

The India-Pakistan conflict continued escalating, with Pakistan claiming to have shot down 25 Israeli-made Indian drones. Pope Leo XIV conducted his first Mass following Pope Francis's death, with Erdoğan sending a congratulatory letter later in the day.
President Erdoğan's statement that Turks "may receive good news at any moment" regarding PKK dominated the morning headlines, continuing the narrative from the preceding days about an imminent announcement of the organization's dissolution. By midday, four key decisions from the PKK congress began circulating in media.

CHP leader Özgür Özel addressed the developing situation at a Van rally, declaring "we say yes to a terror-free Turkey," while MHP leader Bahçeli's Mother's Day message emphasized that "we cannot be at peace while mothers' tears continue to flow."

The death of a worker at Çalık Holding, who had been seeking severance pay for ten years, drew significant coverage, with four suspects later arrested.

In international news, the India-Pakistan conflict saw a breakthrough with both countries agreeing to a ceasefire following US mediation, though explosions were reported in Kashmir hours later.

A metrobus crash in Beylikdüzü injured multiple passengers as the day concluded.
Putin proposed unconditional peace talks with Ukraine to be held in Istanbul, a development that dominated morning coverage. By midday, President Erdoğan had spoken with both Putin and Macron, officially offering Turkey as host for negotiations. Zelensky responded in the evening, stating he would "wait for Putin in Turkey on Thursday."

The PKK dissolution narrative continued with Birgun reporting the organization might announce its decision to lay down arms and dissolve itself "today," while DEM Party Batman Provincial Co-Chair Mustafa Mesut Tekik's death was reported. In Diyarbakır, a new "Democratic Unity Initiative" was established, focused on resolving the Kurdish issue.

Interior Minister Yerlikaya announced nearly 500,000 drivers received citations in the past week. A 3.5 magnitude earthquake struck Malatya's Yeşilyurt district in the evening. Turkey also announced it would host a trilateral meeting with Syrian and Jordanian foreign ministers.
12.05.2025
Monday

The Day PKK Dissolved Itself

The PKK officially announced its dissolution early morning, declaring an end to its 47-year armed struggle, following days of anticipation. The announcement stated this decision "provides a strong foundation for permanent peace." By mid-morning, celebrations with drums and zurna erupted in Diyarbakır, while political reactions poured in throughout the day.

AKP spokesman Çelik responded first, stating the decision must encompass all PKK extensions. MHP leader Bahçeli called it a "historical threshold" and thanked Erdoğan, Öcalan, DEM Party, and the Turkish military. CHP leader Özel expressed cautious support for peace but emphasized constitutional boundaries.

President Erdoğan addressed the nation after a cabinet meeting, calling the development "crossing a critical threshold." The US Embassy described it as "a turning point," while Azerbaijan's Aliyev congratulated Turkey. Details emerged about weapons handover to Turkish forces at three designated locations.
Following PKK's historic dissolution announcement, reactions continued with Interior Minister Yerlikaya calling it "a historic step opening the way for brotherhood, peace and unity." Abdullah Öcalan made his first statement after the PKK congress, sending a "new era" message while DEM Party's Tuncer Bakırhan urged "let weapons be silent, let politics speak."

Ukraine-Russia peace talks gained momentum as Zelenskyy insisted on meeting only with Putin in Istanbul. NATO Secretary General Rutte met with both Erdoğan and Foreign Minister Fidan as diplomatic efforts intensified.

Multiple earthquakes struck Turkey, with tremors felt in Istanbul, Bursa, and the Aegean Sea, prompting earthquake expert warnings about 200,000 high-risk buildings requiring urgent evacuation in Istanbul.

Istanbul Mayor İmamoğlu faced new legal troubles with another investigation opened against him for allegedly insulting a prosecutor, while his diploma cancellation notice was officially delivered.
The most significant diplomatic development was a surprising four-way summit involving President Erdoğan, US President Trump, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Syrian Transition President Ahmed al-Shara. This marked a major step in Syria's reintegration into regional diplomacy.

Morning headlines focused on a 6.0 magnitude earthquake in the Mediterranean that rattled Muğla, with experts warning about the potential for "earthquake storms." Police operations across 49 provinces targeted loan sharks and fraudsters, resulting in 146 detentions.

By midday, Erdoğan addressed PKK's dissolution, stating "all branches of the organization must participate" and that "we have entered a new phase." The US approved a $225 million missile sale to Turkey.

In the evening, the Kremlin announced Putin would not attend the planned Istanbul meeting, complicating the Ukraine peace initiative started earlier in the week. Galatasaray won the Turkish Cup.
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.
16.05.2025
Friday

The Peace Table Harvest Day

The diplomatic momentum of Istanbul peace talks yielded tangible results with Russia and Ukraine agreeing to a major prisoner exchange of 1,000 people. This breakthrough followed sequential meetings where Turkey first hosted Ukraine-US talks in the morning, then Ukraine-Russia negotiations. President Erdoğan, speaking from Albania where he attended the European Political Community summit, emphasized Turkey's role as "pioneer of peace diplomacy" and described being at a "critical juncture" for silencing weapons in Ukraine.

The "Terror-free Turkey" narrative continued with Erdoğan declaring it would be "our greatest achievement" while AK Party Spokesman Çelik confirmed it as "state policy." Officials indicated "weapons will be laid down."

In domestic news, businessman Kemal Şahin was arrested on bribery charges related to Büyükçekmece Municipality corruption investigation, while Beykoz Mayor Alaattin Köseler faces up to 67 years imprisonment according to a new indictment. The Supreme Court upheld the 16-year prison sentence for the police officer who killed Berkin Elvan.
President Erdoğan announced a significant 75 billion cubic meter natural gas discovery in the Black Sea, valued at approximately $30 billion, reinforcing Turkey's energy independence ambitions. The Justice Ministry filed indictments against 32 suspects in the deadly Kartalkaya hotel fire case, with 13 defendants facing up to 1,998 years imprisonment each for their roles in the disaster that killed 78 people.

The diplomatic momentum from previous days' peace initiatives continued with Erdoğan confirming Turkey's discussions with Iraq regarding PKK weapons handover mechanisms. He emphasized there were "no issues with the Lausanne Treaty," seemingly walking back previous statements that had caused controversy.

Weather warnings dominated morning coverage, with "orange" alerts for İzmir and "yellow" alerts for 18 other provinces. A 4.0 magnitude earthquake in Kahramanmaraş in the evening reminded the country of ongoing seismic risks after the devastating 2023 earthquakes.
The DEM Party delegation's visit to İmralı prison dominated news, delivering PKK leader Öcalan's message calling for "a new contract within brotherhood law." MHP leader Bahçeli responded by characterizing the PKK's dissolution announcement as entering "a sensitive, fragile phase requiring patience" and called for establishing a parliamentary commission to oversee the process.

The political response to PKK's dissolution declaration continued to unfold with İmamoğlu stating "peace should flourish under parliament's roof." Minister of Education Tekin and other officials made "Terror-free Turkey" statements, continuing the narrative from previous days.

A NATO military exercise near Turkey's border raised concerns, with 12,000 troops reportedly participating. Newspapers noted the Youth Union of Turkey (TGB) organized protests against it.

In sports news, Galatasaray secured its 25th Super League championship, with President Erdoğan offering congratulations in the evening.
May 19th Youth and Sports Day dominated morning coverage with ceremonies across Turkey, including celebrations at Anıtkabir, Gabar, and Kapadokya. The Ministry of National Defense released special content featuring flags of 16 Turkic states. President Erdoğan emphasized the role of youth in building the "Turkey Century."

By afternoon, diplomatic tensions emerged as Turkey's Foreign Ministry issued a stern response to Greece's "Pontus genocide" allegations, calling them "delusional statements" that "interpret history backwards." This dispute added strain to already complex bilateral relations.

Political developments continued with DEM Party beginning outreach visits to other political parties, starting with DEVA Party, while the PKK disarmament process remained in focus with TBMM President Kurtulmuş emphasizing a "Terror-free Turkey." President Erdoğan later reinforced this message, stating Turkey would "turn the terror-free corner" toward the Turkey Century.

International news highlighted Trump-Putin talks producing an agreement for "immediate" Russia-Ukraine ceasefire negotiations.
A third wave of operations against the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality dominated coverage, with 22 officials including Media and Public Relations Department Head Taner Çetin targeted in corruption investigations. Pro-government outlets emphasized alleged corruption while opposition sources framed it as political persecution of Mayor İmamoğlu.

The morning also saw operations against manipulation in the Istanbul Stock Exchange with seven arrest warrants issued.

By midday, Turkey's intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalın conducted significant diplomatic contacts in Syria, meeting with officials in Damascus, while Defense Ministry representatives also visited Syrian counterparts - marking continued normalization efforts as the EU announced lifting sanctions on Syria.

DEM Party continued its outreach by meeting with CHP leadership, furthering cooperation following previous days' developments regarding the PKK disarmament process.

A 4.0 magnitude earthquake in the Marmara Sea shook Istanbul in the evening, prompting statements from seismologists about its implications.
In the morning, a large counter-terrorism operation targeting DEAŞ/ISIS resulted in 298 arrests across 47 provinces, with Interior Minister Yerlikaya announcing the details. The Istanbul earthquake that occurred the previous evening continued to generate analysis about its significance.

By midday, Israel's firing on diplomats, including Turkish officials, triggered sharp condemnation from Turkey's Foreign Ministry, calling for accountability. This incident coincided with MSF's criticism of "ridiculously inadequate" aid allowed into Gaza.

President Erdoğan attended the Turkic States Organization summit in Hungary, emphasizing support for Turkish Cypriots and solidarity among Turkic nations.

The Istanbul Municipality corruption investigation continued with new developments, including the release of suspect Ertan Yıldız to house arrest and trustees appointed to another company linked to the case.

By evening, Istanbul's public transit crisis loomed as private bus operators announced they would stop service the next day over unpaid debts from the municipality.
A 6.0 magnitude earthquake in the Aegean Sea triggered concerns across western Turkey in early morning hours, with seismologists providing reassurances about its implications for Marmaris and Bodrum regions.

Istanbul faced public transportation disruption as private bus operators halted services over unpaid municipality debts, though service resumed after emergency negotiations. This crisis occurred amidst continuing municipal corruption investigations with 13 additional officials arrested in a third wave of operations targeting Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality's Tree and Landscape Company.

The National Security Council met and issued an eight-point statement emphasizing commitment to the "Terror-Free Turkey" goal, highlighting ongoing monitoring of PKK's dissolution process declared earlier in May.

President Erdoğan made notable statements rejecting early election possibilities and addressing constitutional changes, stating he had "no concern about being re-elected or nominated again."

Late evening brought reports that prominent businessman İnan Kıraç had allegedly been abducted from a hospital.
The morning began with the fourth wave of corruption operations against Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (İBB), with 49 people detained, including Mayor İmamoğlu's security director. Prosecutors ordered removal of İmamoğlu's photographs from municipality buildings.

Simultaneously, a major FETÖ operation targeted 63 active-duty military personnel across 36 provinces, with 56-59 detentions reported.

Businessman İnan Kıraç's alleged abduction became a significant story, with two people detained in the investigation.

The political landscape saw interesting developments as DEM Party announced plans to visit the nationalist MHP, while MHP leader Bahçeli urged President Erdoğan to reconsider his stance on not seeking re-election.

President Erdoğan hosted Spain's Prime Minister Sanchez, emphasizing family values at an international forum where he claimed "family institutions are being hacked." Emine Erdoğan met with Eswatini's Queen Mother as part of the diplomatic engagements.
President Erdoğan's meeting with Syrian leader Ahmed Sharaa dominated morning headlines, continuing Turkey's diplomatic efforts following the previous day's fourth wave of corruption operations against İstanbul Municipality. Sharaa later met with the US Ambassador to Turkey, suggesting potential international coordination.

Erdoğan reinforced his "Terror-Free Turkey" narrative in afternoon statements, following similar messaging from the National Security Council two days prior. Foreign Minister Fidan's announced visit to Russia builds on Turkey's diplomatic positioning.

The CHP mounted a visible protest for Mayor İmamoğlu by hanging "Freedom for İmamoğlu" banners on the July 15 Martyrs Bridge, promptly triggering an investigation. This action follows yesterday's detention of İmamoğlu's security director.

Other developments included Turkish Red Notice extraditions, Galatasaray's team bus being attacked with stones, and reports of a police officer's vehicle containing multiple Kalashnikov rifles.
The final revisions of the 10th Judicial Package dominated morning headlines, while opposition leader Özgür Özel vowed continued pressure until İmamoğlu is released, following CHP's bridge banner protest that triggered an investigation. By midday, Özel escalated rhetoric at both a Kadıköy street race and Socialist International meeting, claiming Turkey is undergoing a "civil coup."

President Erdoğan hosted Pakistan's Prime Minister Sharif, emphasizing his "Terror-Free Turkey" agenda while deliberately avoiding mention of İmamoğlu at public events. Pro-government media continued corruption allegations against İmamoğlu with reports of his security director's "mysterious safe" and missing phone.

The fourth wave of the "Yenidoğan Gang" investigation produced claims of an assassination plot against a prosecutor. By evening, Fenerbahçe's EuroLeague championship victory provided a momentary diversion from the intensifying political crisis.
The corruption investigation into Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality escalated with 19 people arrested from 36 detained in the "fourth wave" operation. İmamoğlu's security director's testimony revealed claims that cameras were removed from the mayor's residence for "family privacy." President Erdoğan warned officials that "we won't look at the tears of those who abuse power."

A major FETÖ operation resulted in 61 active military personnel being arrested across 36 provinces, including 4 colonels and 8 lieutenant colonels.

Foreign Minister Fidan met with Russian President Putin in Moscow, continuing Turkey's diplomatic positioning following yesterday's meeting with Syria's Sharaa.

Hamas reportedly accepted a US ceasefire proposal in Gaza, while Turkey condemned Israeli provocations at Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The CHP's internal tensions continued with speculation about contingency plans if their convention is canceled by the courts, while musician İlhan Şeşen's death drew condolences from across the political spectrum.
The 65th anniversary of the May 27, 1960 coup dominated political discourse, with President Erdoğan announcing he assigned 10 legal experts to draft a new constitution to replace the "coup constitution's shame." AK Party, MHP, and government officials condemned the coup as a "black stain" on democracy.

DEM Party leaders visited MHP in a surprising diplomatic move and plan to meet with AK Party tomorrow, signaling progress in the "peace process." Efkan Ala mentioned expectations for PKK to disarm by summer.

Security operations continued with FETÖ investigations expanding to döner restaurant chains following Papara payment system raids. Eight companies were placed under trustees for alleged illegal betting activities.

Foreign Minister Fidan met with Russian counterpart Lavrov, emphasizing Turkey's readiness to host Russia-Ukraine peace talks.

Istanbul experienced bombing attacks on entertainment venues overnight, with 7 injured from hand grenades.
The anticipated AKP-DEM Party meeting concluded with Parliament Speaker Kurtulmuş calling for PKK self-dissolution and emphasizing parliamentary responsibility for the peace process. President Erdoğan traveled to Azerbaijan for independence celebrations, declaring Turkey-Azerbaijan-Pakistan as "three states, one nation" while offering to mediate between Pakistan and India.

Morning headlines focused on financial operations with 17 detention orders for stock market manipulation across nine provinces. A major explosion at a Güngören buffet dominated breaking news, while Seyfi Beyaz from the Istanbul Municipality investigation received house arrest through "effective remorse" testimony.

Russia proposed new Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul for June, with Foreign Minister Fidan visiting Ukraine and meeting his Russian counterpart. The day ended with parliamentary approval of increased traffic fines and appointment of four new HSK judicial council members, while thousands gathered in Esenler for an İmamoğlu solidarity rally.
29.05.2025
Thursday

The Prison Reform Package Day

A comprehensive prison enforcement package reached parliament at 3 PM, covering nine laws and thirty articles with provisions for housing enforcement and evictions. The submission followed President Erdoğan's positive response to MHP leader Bahçeli's re-candidacy suggestion, saying he was "honored" by the remarks.

The Istanbul Municipality corruption investigation intensified with three more releases through "effective remorse" testimony, including businessman Seyfi Beyaz claiming official Adem Soytekin demanded 3 million lira for construction permits. Turkey's first floating gas platform Osman Gazi passed through the Bosphorus toward the Black Sea.

Legal challenges to government trustees escalated when Istanbul's 9th Administrative Court applied to the Constitutional Court to overturn the trustee appointment law, specifically citing Esenyurt Mayor Ahmet Özer's case. The European Council imposed sanctions on three Syrian National Army groups for targeting Alevi civilians. Foreign Minister Fidan positioned Turkey as an "ideal actor" for Russia-Ukraine peace talks while meeting Hamas officials in Qatar.
30.05.2025
Friday

The Holiday Bonus Payment Day

Holiday bonus payments for retirees began, with multiple outlets confirming the payment schedule. President Erdoğan revived his campaign against interest-based economics, stating he would continue advocating for alternatives to the current financial system and develop new options.

The Narin Güran murder trial concluded its fourth hearing with sentences delivered to 15 defendants, while the Kartalkaya hotel fire disaster indictment was accepted by courts. A major counterfeiting operation in Istanbul yielded 4.5 billion lira worth of fake foreign currency.

Erdoğan spoke with Zelensky by phone, reaffirming Turkey's commitment to Ukraine peace talks continuing in Istanbul. Turkey proposed hosting a four-way summit between Erdoğan, Trump, Zelensky, and Putin, with Russian delegation arrival in Istanbul confirmed.

Weather dominated breaking news as flooding hit multiple provinces while snow fell on Mount Erciyes in May. New demographic data showed atheist numbers quadrupled in Turkey's updated belief mapping.
31.05.2025
Saturday

The Fifth Wave Detention Day

The fifth wave of operations against Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality dominated coverage from early morning, with detention orders issued for 47 people including several district mayors and former CHP MP Aykut Erdoğdu on corruption charges. This escalated the ongoing judicial pressure that began with previous waves documented in recent summaries.

Political confrontation intensified when CHP leader Özgür Özel called President Erdoğan a "junta leader" rather than president, claiming he conducted a "coup." Pro-government media responded with counter-accusations against CHP figures.

A horrific honor killing in Gaziantep emerged as major domestic news, where a mother strangled her 25-year-old daughter following a "family council" decision. The perpetrator confessed to the crime.

The 12th anniversary of Gezi protests saw heavy police cordons around Taksim Square, with 87 people detained despite the security blockade. Transportation disruptions affected metro services as authorities prevented commemorative gatherings.

President Erdoğan conducted diplomatic calls with Hungarian PM Orban, Somalia's president, and Bulgaria's president while promising a "terror-free Turkey" at a youth summit.
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