Talks for a ceasefire in Ukraine remain ongoing as civilian casualties mount. The International Court of Justice has ordered Russia to stop its military operations, but the Russians show no sign of pulling out.

Russia is still expanding its offensive. It is now aiming at the capital, other cities and areas in the south.

Shelling has hit schools and hospitals, leaving Ukrainians to suggest the troops have no regard for civilian life.

At the same time, negotiators have suggested progress in recent peace talks.

The two sides are reportedly discussing a security framework independent of NATO.

The head of Russia's delegation says Ukraine is proposing to be a neutral state, like Austria or Sweden. But they want an independent army and navy.

Ukraine's negotiator says they need a "Ukrainian" solution with outside nations guaranteeing its security.

Meanwhile, President Vladimir Putin told his Cabinet ministers that his country will fulfill its goals in Ukraine.

Putin said, "All the tasks set will certainly be solved. We will reliably ensure the security of Russia and our people and we will never allow Ukraine to serve as a springboard for aggressive actions against our country."

The president stressed his intention to continue what he calls the "special military operation."

That pledge comes the same day as the ICJ's call for Russia to suspend it and end Ukraine's suffering.

ICJ President Joan Donoghue said, "The court is profoundly concerned about the use of force by the Russian Federation in Ukraine, which raises very serious issues of international law."

Rulings at the UN's highest court are binding. But it has no way to enforce them. Suits require the consent of both countries, and Russia wants nothing to do with it.

Still, the Ukrainian side has welcomed the result.

Anton Korynevych, who is a lawyer representing Ukraine, said, "The court told Russia that Russia must immediately stop, cease, suspend the military operations in Ukraine which started on the 24th February. So this is a complete victory for us, for Ukraine."

The ruling could also impact on the International Criminal Court's investigation into allegations of war crimes.