Third Round Of Ceasefire Talks 'Small Positives'

Ukrainian delegate to the ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine Mikhailo Podolyak has written: 'The third round of negotiations has ended. There are small positive subductions in improving the logistics of humanitarian corridors... Intensive consultations have continued on the basic political block of the regulations, along with a ceasefire and security guarantees.'

• Podolyak's comments suggest that the main goal of negotiating a ceasefire remains on the table. Before the talks Podolyak wrote: 'Do not pay attention to various toxic surnames like Yanukovych, Boyko, Muraev.'
• Remarks which suggest that any move by Russia to condition a ceasefire on the installation of a pro-Russian government in Kyiv will be rejected.
• Although there have been limited breakthroughs in the three rounds of talks so far, there is cautious optimism that maintaining diplomatic connection between Russia and Ukraine may provide the foundation for an offramp for Russia.