Ukraine peace talks cancelled

Talks to ending the conflict in Ukraine had been underway since Wednesay

The conflict in Eastern Ukraine has claimed nearly 5000 victims
The conflict in Eastern Ukraine has claimed nearly 5000 victims

Talks between Ukraine's government and pro-Russian rebels, which were scheduled to continue on Friday in Minsk, have been called off, according to Belarusian officials.

The talks, which had begun on Wednesday, were aimed at bringing an end the conflict in eastern Ukraine which, in spite of a September ceasefire and framework peace deal, has continued to rage on. The conflict is estimated to have claimed almost 5000 lives.  

No immediate reason for the cancellation was given by the Belarusian foreign ministry.

Previous talks, on troop withdrawals and aid had not registered any progress.

Friday's talks had been expected to tackle issues including the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the front line, the exchange of prisoners and ending Ukraine's economic blockade of rebel-held areas.