05:06 AM EDT, 08/21/2025 (MT Newswires) -- Crude oil prices saw gains on Thursday as ongoing talks to end the war in Ukraine still failed to provide an outcome.

Brent crude at last look rose 0.8% to US$67.37/barrel and West Texas Intermediate crude gained 0.9% to US$63.28/b.

This comes after Russia on Wednesday said attempts to resolve security issues relating to Ukraine without Moscow's participation were a "road to nowhere," Reuters reported on Thursday.

"If the White House's efforts do result in a halt to hostilities in Ukraine, and Russia gradually coming back into the international fold, it will be bearish for the crude market. But for now the Brent price floor to watch out for remains at $65 a barrel," Reuters quoted independent analyst Gaurav Sharma as saying.

Amid the uncertainty, the possibility of tighter sanctions on Russia has resurfaced, leading to bullish sentiment, Reuters reported, citing PVM Oil Associates analyst Tamas Varga.

In addition, a rebound in U.S. crude demand as seen in a 6-million-barrel drop in inventories last week provided further price support, the report said, citing data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.