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| Vladimir Putin in front of a computer, in September 2021 (ALEXEY DRUZHININ / AFP) |
Russia has seen "progress" in negotiations with Ukraine, Russian foreign policy spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday. "In parallel with the special military operation [name given by the Russian authorities to the entry of Russian troops into Ukraine, editor's note], negotiations are also underway with the Ukrainian side in order to put an end to the outpouring of senseless blood and resistance of the Ukrainian Armed Forces… Some progress has been made,” she said.
Russia's goals "do not include the occupation of Ukraine, the destruction of its state, or the overthrow of the current government," she told a press conference, reiterating not to aim the civilian population.
Russia has brought tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine for nearly two weeks. This conflict caused the exodus of millions of refugees and left hundreds dead, including many civilians.