LONDON — European stocks are expected to open flat to lower on Wednesday following the latest round of talks between Russia and Ukraine, aimed at finding a solution to the conflict.

The U.K. FTSEindex opens at 7.536, Germany, 7 points more DAX 34 points lower at 14,767, France’s CAC 40 down 8 points at 6,775 and Italy’s FTSE MIBData from IG shows that the number of points was 43 lower at 24,630

Investor sentiment was boosted on Tuesday following negotiations between Russian and Ukrainian officials in Turkey, at which Russia’s deputy defense minister claimed Moscow had decided to “drastically” cut back its military activity near Ukraine’s capital.

Alexander Fomin said in a statement that Russia would reduce its military activities near Kyiv, Chernihiv, and other areas to allow for progress in peace talks. Russia had previously stated that it would cut military operations in Ukraine’s other regions, but instead continued its advances.

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Investor sentiment was buoyed by the prospect of a ceasefire Tuesday. Dow Jones Industrial Average futures increased 200 points or 0.6%, indicating that investors are optimistic. S&P 500 futures also climbed 0.6%, while Nasdaq 100 futures climbed 0.7%. The benchmark West Texas Intermediate crude, which is the U.S. standard, jumped 0.6% in the meantime. fell more than 4% to $100 per barrel.

Although doubts remain over the promise, the Russian military continues to demonstrate its resolve. begun moving some of its troops in Ukraine away from areas around Kyiv to positions elsewhere in Ukraine, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby warned the troop movements do not amount to a retreat.

Shares in Asia-PacificAs investors monitor developments regarding the conflict in Ukraine, they were also mixed during Wednesday trade. StatesideTraders are monitoring key economic data and the Federal Reserve’s interest rate rises.

The Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey on Tuesday showed 11.3 million job openings, higher than the 11.1 million expected. ADP will also publish its data regarding private payrolls in advance of Friday’s highly-viewed monthly jobs report.

Upcoming data releases include Russia’s latest reading on business and consumer confidence. Retailer Next has just released its most recent earnings.

— CNBC’s Amanda Macias contributed to this market report.