Russian citizens, who were asked to share their views on Vladimir Putin’s December 3rd trip to Turkey, overwhelmingly expressed that Turkey and Russia share a rich history and cultural ties and stated that developing economic and tourism relations should be taken even further between the two nations.
Speaking to Russians in the historical Red Square located in the Russian capital of Moscow, all shared positive views when it comes to Turkey and many remarked on the shared histories and strong cultural heritage.
University student Mariya Soboleva says, "I find Putin's upcoming trip to Turkey to be extremely positive, in general Russia should maintain close relations with everyone. There is no need for contention. Both nations should better relations. Turkey is a beautiful country; I had a wonderful vacation there."
University student Vasili Nazarov says, "Putin's trip to Turkey is a wonderful opportunity. I find it to be extremely positive. I have never been to Turkey; however I definitely want to go in the future. From what I have heard and seen on television, Turkey is a beautiful and appealing place. Why should they harbor bad ties with Russia?"
Student Yelena Seleznyova says, "I have been to Turkey. I enjoyed everything about it. The sea, sun, food and people… My vacation there left a great impression. As for Putin's trip to Turkey, we need to increase ties and further develop cooperation."
Academic Maksim Lavrov was also asked to comment on his views of Turkey and Putin's trip. "I have never been to Turkey. However, I have seen photographs and liked them a lot. I am also in favor of further developing cultural and other ties."
Company administrator Dmitri Çesnokov states, "We are neighboring nations. Russia and Turkey have a rich history; both are states that have founded empires. We need to increase relations today. As nations with such rich cultural legacies, we need to advance joint collaboration. Therefore, Putin's trip to Turkey is an excellent opportunity."
A Dutch tourist named Frank, who was touring Moscow's Red Square with a Russian girlfriend, also commented on Turkish-Russian relations for us. "From an outside perspective as far as I can see relations between Turkey and Russia are going well. I have been to Turkey before, it is a beautiful country."
Yekaterina İvanova, who works in television, states, "I would like to state the following in regards to Putin's trip to Turkey: relations between nations need to be strong and advanced. Neighboring nations need to be in close contact. Russia and Turkey both have rich histories and cultures. I personally have never been to Turkey, however I have read that Turkey has a rich an ancient culture. Therefore, today we need to be good friends. We are now in the 21st century."
High school student Nastya İvanova says, "I don't know much about politics. However, I can say that political trips like this hold much benefit for nations political-wise. Turkey and Russia should be friends. In general, let me just add that I support world peace! I have friends in Turkey too…"
University student Aleksey İvanov says, "We hope that Putin's trip to Turkey will be good and productive. Russia and Turkey should increase their friendly relations. We hope for peace, happiness and good days ahead for both countries!"
Market manager Kristina Artamonova says, "In general, we always hope that when state leaders go on a trip it is both enjoyable and productive. I harbor the same wishes for Putin's trip to Turkey. Turkey is a beautiful country and I am planning to go in summer."
And finally, Olesya Rıjkova says, "I am also planning on going to Turkey. The Russian and Turkish public should be friends. Putin's trip is also a friendly one."