IFX: Ceasefire Will Be Discussed In Talks w/Ukraine-Russian Negotiator

Russia's state-run IFX reporting that according to a Russian negotiator saying that a ceasefire will be discussed at talks with Ukrainian delegation at the second round of talks.

• Stances of both sides seems so far apart (Russia demanding Ukrainian demilitarisation, Ukraine demanding full ceasefire) that any significant progress looks like an unlikely prospect in the short term.
• Difficult progress being made by Russian troops has led to some speculation that Russian side could seek a ceasefire. However, Russia retains huge military firepower advantage in Kharkiv and around Kyiv, which could see a long-term siege swinging in Moscow's favour. As such, talks may play into Russian hands allowing its forces to re-supply, reinforce supply lines, and move troops and equipment into positions to launch sizeable assaults into Ukraine's large cities.