Russia says peace talks with Ukraine continue every day

MOSCOW

Russia and Ukraine hold peace talks every day via videoconference, the head of the Russian delegation said Monday.

The videoconferencing format is both time and cost efficient, Vladimir Medinsky wrote on his Telegram channel.

"Talks with the Ukrainian delegation continue in the videoconference format every day, seven days a week. This format helps save time and money. We strive to do everything possible to fulfill the tasks set by (Russian President) Vladimir Putin for the peaceful future of Russia," he said.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began on Feb. 24, has drawn international condemnation, led to financial sanctions on Moscow and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 636 civilians have been killed and 1,125 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war, according to the UN. It has warned, however, that the true toll is likely much higher as it has not been able to gain access to areas of increased hostilities.

Some 2.8 million people have also fled to neighboring countries, said the UN refugee agency.