Roman Abramovich has been seen at peace talks between Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Istanbul.

The Russian oligarch, who was allegedly poisoned while attending earlier talks, was seen standing in the background as Turkey’s president greeted delegations from Ukraine and Russia.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the aims of the talks, which Ukrainian TV said have got under way, were to establish a ceasefire as soon as possible.

Putin’s forces ‘pushed away from Kyiv’ – live updates

Earlier talks failed to make progress on ending the month-long war that has left thousands dead and forced more than 10 million Ukrainians from their homes.

Read more: How involved is Roman Abramovich in peace talks?

The billionaire was spotted this morning with both delegations wearing a suit and translation headphones.

Roman Abramovich peace talks: Just how involved is the Chelsea owner in Ukraine-Russia negotiations?

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Roman Abramovich and Ukrainian peace negotiators were reportedly victims of poisoning – but US casts doubt

The Kremlin previously said the Chelsea owner played an early role in peace talks but the process was now in the hands of the two sides’ negotiating teams.

Mr Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK earlier this month as part of the West’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, due to his alleged close ties with Vladimir Putin, which he denies.

Abramovich reportedly victim of poisoning

Three men including Mr Abramovich suffered symptoms including red eyes, constant tearing and peeling skin, a source confirmed to Sky News, after a meeting on Ukrainian territory reportedly on 3 March.

Although investigative website Bellingcat said the symptoms were “consistent with poisoning with chemical weapons”, a US official said the intelligence “highly suggests” the cause was environmental.

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