Kyiv: Ukraine-Russia dialogue possible after troops' withdrawal, ceasefire

In the peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, the matter remains with Moscow, as Kyiv is waiting for the withdrawal of troops and a ceasefire.

A senior Ukrainian presidential aide, Mykhaylo Podolyak, said on Twitter, RBC reports.

"If Moscow wants dialogue, the ball is in its court. First, a ceasefire and withdrawal of troops. Then - constructive [dialogue]," he wrote.

The comment appeared in response to statements by former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, whom Podolyak called "the herald of the empire and the voice at the Russian royal court".

The German politician came to Moscow on vacation at the end of July and later said that he had a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.