Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed he tasked Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich with conveying an offer for direct talks to Vladimir Putin. Abramovich has previously acted as an intermediary since the invasion began.

Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed reports that he asked Roman Abramovich to pass on an offer of direct talks to Vladimir Putin. A Russian oligarch loyal to the Kremlin may be a surprise choice of messenger for Kyiv, but the former Chelsea owner has a history of acting as go-between since the start of Russia’s invasion.