Russia says it is waiting for Ukraine's response on peace talks, 'Ball is in their court'

After Moscow announced the second round of operations in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Russia on Wednesday said that a detailed draft has been sent to Kyiv on peace talks. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that "the ball is in their courts" and Russia is now "waiting for a response." The draft is said to be "absolutely clear" with "elaborate wording".

Peskov also said that Kyiv has been constantly deviating from previously confirmed agreements. He was quoted by AP saying the Ukrainians do not show a great inclination to intensify the negotiation process.

A Ukrainian official told AFP that Russian forces have intensified the attack on Mariupol, a port city of strategic value and it could fall soon.

Last month, Ukraine presented Russia with its own draft in a meeting in Istanbul. It is not clear if both sides have held any talks since then. Russia launched the invasion on February 24 and forced over five million people to flee their homes.

According to sources, 5.03 million Ukrainians are seeking asylum in neighbouring nations. Another 13 million are trapped in war zones, reported Hindustan Times. Both nations have agreed to facilitate a humanitarian corridor for civilians to flee the port city.

Russia also announced that it test-launched its Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile. President Putin had earlier said the new nuclear weapon will give Russia's enemies something to think about. The missile was seen (on TV) hitting its targets in the Kamchatka peninsula.

In support of Ukraine, the European Council chief said that the EU will do everything possible to help win the war. Wimbledon has banned Russian and Belarusian players from the 2022 tournament. India's Tata Steel announced that it will stop doing business with Russia.