Ukraine and Russia make ‘most meaningful progress’ since start of peace talks

The delegations of Ukraine and Russia met today in Istanbul, Turkey.

During the talks, Kiev offered to adopt a neutral status and not to join military alliances in exchange for security guarantees.

Ukraine has also said it wants to discuss the status of annexed Crimea.

The host of the meeting, Turkey, said this was the most successful round of talks the two sides have held so far.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has said Tuesday’s talks between Ukraine and Russia – the first face-to-face in more than two weeks – have been the most successful since talks between the two sides began.

Cavusoglu said Turkey has welcomed both countries to reach compromise and agreement on certain issues, stressing that the war must end as soon as possible.

He said “even more difficult topics” were expected to be discussed in the future between the foreign ministers of Ukraine and Russia.