Ukraine, Russia 'want ceasefire,' Turkey FM says en route to Kyiv

Russia and Ukraine both want a ceasefire to halt three years of war, Turkey's top diplomat said on Friday as he headed to Kyiv after holding talks in Moscow.

"I observe that the issue is beginning to take a more optimistic turn as negotiations start. Both parties want a ceasefire. No one says they don't want it," Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on the train taking him to Kyiv, reported news agency Anadolu.

Ukraine had said it is ready to take part in new talks with Russia in Istanbul next week, but wants to see Russia's proposals for ending the war.

"Ukraine is ready to attend the next meeting, but we want to engage in a constructive discussion. This means it is important to receive Russia’s draft," said Zelensky's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. The advisor released a statement Thursday after Russia said earlier that Moscow was still awaiting Ukraine's response to the offer for new talks on Monday in the Turkish city.