Negotiations ‘complicated,’ positions of Kyiv, Moscow different: Ukraine

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

ANKARA (AA) - Negotiations between Ukraine and Russia are difficult and fundamental issues are sacred for Kyiv, the Ukrainian presidential adviser said Thursday.

"I would like to softly recommend the 'active commentators of the negotiation process' who are NOT inside: Don't spread your lies in a country that is at war. Negotiations are complicated," Mykhailo Podolyak said on Twitter.

"The positions of the parties are different," he said. "For us, fundamental issues are inviolable."

Russia began its war against Ukraine on Feb. 24. It has drawn international condemnation, led to sweeping financial sanctions and export controls on Moscow and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 780 civilians have been killed and 1,252 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war, according to the UN, which emphasizes that the true number is likely much higher.

Around 3.2 million people have also fled to neighboring countries, according to UN figures.