In Ankara, Memory of Russian Ambassador Andrei Karlov Honored

A solemn ceremony in Ankara marked the memory of Andrei Karlov, the Russian ambassador assassinated in 2016. Flowers were laid at his bust in the Turkish capital, attended by diplomats, officials, and students from the embassy school named in his honour. Karlov’s contributions to Russian-Turkish relations were remembered as pivotal during a turbulent period.

Andrei Karlov was fatally shot on December 19, 2016, while attending the opening of a photo exhibition in Ankara. The attacker, Mevlüt Mert Altıntaş, an off-duty police officer, was killed by security forces at the scene. Witnesses, including Associated Press photographer Burhan Ozbilici, later described Karlov as an exceptionally kind and warm-hearted man.

Karlov had played a crucial role in easing tensions between Moscow and Ankara after the 2015 'jet crisis', when Turkey downed a Russian warplane. His diplomatic efforts were also vital during Turkey’s failed coup attempt in July 2016. Alexei Ivanov, Russia’s chargé d’affaires in Turkey, highlighted Karlov’s lasting impact on fostering stronger ties between the two nations. In March 2021, an Ankara court delivered its verdict in the case. Three individuals—including Altıntaş (posthumously), his father Hüseyin, and his brother Hamza—received life sentences. Eighteen others were jailed for terms ranging from 12 years and 3 months to 15 years. Earlier reports had noted that 28 people were charged in total, with five initially receiving life sentences and eight others given prison terms from three years and nine months to 15 years. Russian President Vladimir Putin posthumously awarded Karlov the title of Hero of Russia in recognition of his service and sacrifice.

The commemoration in Ankara underscored Karlov’s enduring legacy in diplomacy. His efforts helped stabilise relations between Russia and Turkey during critical moments. The legal proceedings concluded with multiple convictions, bringing a formal close to the case surrounding his assassination.