Russian and Ukrainian delegations began their first talks since Vladimir Putin ordered his forces to attack Ukraine last week.

Ukraine said that its goal for the talks is an immediate ceasefire and withdrawal of Russian troops. Its delegation includes several high-ranking officials.

Moscow declined to comment on its aim in negotiations, but Russian negotiator Vladimir Medinsky said Russia wants to reach an agreement that was in the interests of both sides.

Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry earlier on Monday announced the capture of Berdiansk and Enerhodar, in addition to the surroundings of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant.

However, Ukraine denied that it had lost control of the plant. Enerhodar's mayor Dmitri Orlov denied that the city and the plant had been captured. (ILKHA)