After meeting with Russia, first reaction comes from Ukrainian presidency

He has said the talks have been difficult and that the Russian side is not repentant of what it caused.

“Negotiations are difficult. However, without any extreme ultimatum, already. Unfortunately, the Russian side is still extremely biased about the devastating processes initiated by”, wrote Mykhailo Podoliak, adviser to the Ukrainian President's Chief of Staff.

While talks were under way between the Russian and Ukrainian sides, Russia has carried out a missile attack on the town of Kharkiwi, where reports were that several civilians were killed and otherwise injured.

Meanwhile, while discussions between the parties were under way, Ukraine has also announced that its president, Voldymyr Zelensky, has signed the application for membership in the European Union.