Pakistan, Dec. 13 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday warned that the Black Sea should not turn into a confrontation zone between Russia and Ukraine. He emphasized that safe navigation is essential for all countries. The warning came after several recent strikes in the region, including attacks on ports and vessels.

The caution followed a Russian air strike that damaged a Turkish-owned vessel in Ukraine's Odesa port. Erdogan had raised the issue with Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier at a summit in Turkmenistan. He also called for a limited ceasefire regarding attacks on ports and energy facilities.

Erdogan stressed that Russia and Ukraine must avoid actions that escalate tensions in the Black Sea. He highlighte...