So, Russia and Ukraine are still as far apart as ever, with the two warring countries unable to make a significant breakthrough in direct talks in Istanbul.

A key ally to Vladimir Putin has admitted Russia will only accept a complete victory over Ukraine in a major blow to the US’s efforts to end the war. US president Donald Trump has been trying to fulfil his election campaign promise to end the Ukraine conflict ever since he returned to office in January.

Delegations from Russia and Ukraine are gathered in Turkey for their second round of direct peace talks in just over two weeks, although expectations were low for any significant progress on ending th