A Western official said on Thursday that they don't think "we" are seeing any signs there is a really serious attempt at finding a compromise in Russo-Ukrainian peace negotiations, reported Reuters. It is incredibly difficult for Russia to stop selling oil and gas to Western Europe, the official continued, noting his skepticism that these threats will be seen through. 

Peace talks between Russia and Ukraine recommence on Friday and come after Tuesday's allegedly "constructive" round of talks that was seen at the time as raising the likelihood of a Presidential level meeting and of a ceasefire agreement being reached. However, optimism that a deal might be near has waned in recent days, with Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly not in the mood for compromise and Ukraine still not offering to fulfill all of Russia's demands.