The prospects for peace in Ukraine are "minimal" at present, the United Nations chief lamented after a telephone conversation with Vladimir Putin.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he and Putin discussed efforts to overcome “obstacles” that remain related to Russia’s food and fertilizer exports, but warned it would be “naïve” to believe there has been sufficient progress towards a rapid end to the war in Ukraine.

“I have the feeling we are still far away from peace. I would be lying if I would say it could happen soon. I have no illusion; at the present moment the chances of a peace deal are minimal. Even a ceasefire is not in sight”, - said Guterres.

Despite his bleak assessment about the war that has raged since Russia invaded its neighbor in late February, Guterres stressed he was maintaining contact with both sides and expressed hope that “one day it will be possible to go to a higher level of discussion”.

Guterres said he spoke with Putin earlier Wednesday and that they discussed the exports initiative “and its extension and its possible expansion”.