Russia’s lead negotiator in peace talks with Ukraine said that Moscow is willing to resume negotiations, but Kyiv has to make the first step.

“For our part, we are ready to continue the dialogue. But I will emphasize once again: the ball for the continuation of peace talks is in Ukraine’s court. Freezing the talks is entirely Ukraine’s initiative.

Russia has never refused negotiations, including at the highest level. [Russia’s President] Vladimir Putin has repeatedly confirmed this. The only question is that in order for a summit meeting to take place between the presidents, serious preparations are needed”, - said Vladimir Medinsky.