Russian and Ukrainian negotiators began face-to-face talks in Istanbul, with host Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urging them to “put an end to this tragedy|.

Talks at the Dolmabahce palace are aimed at trying to end a war has killed an estimated 20,000 people and forced more than 10 million from their homes.

“The two parties have legitimate concerns. It’s possible to reach a solution acceptable to the international community.

It’s up to the two parties to put an end to this tragedy. Extension of the conflict is in no one’s interest. The whole world is waiting for good news from you”, - Erdogan said.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu was also due to meet the Ukrainian and Russian delegations on Tuesday.