Ukraine-Russia talks could resume in September, top official says

The negotiation process between Ukraine and Russia is currently on hold but could resume in the near future, with a new meeting potentially taking place as early as September, Ukrainian presidential chief of staff Kyrylo Budanov said.

Budanov said that efforts were underway to “revive” the negotiation track. He did not provide a specific date or location for a possible meeting.

Asked directly whether the potential gathering would involve Ukrainian and Russian negotiating delegations, Budanov said he hoped so and indicated that US participation would also be necessary.

“I hope so, yes. Well, and American ones too. There’s no way without them,” Budanov said.

His comments suggest that any renewed negotiations could involve Ukraine, Russia and the United States, although no final decision on holding such a meeting has been announced.

The negotiating process has previously been suspended, while Kyiv has stressed the importance of maintaining diplomatic contacts with Washington involved.

Ukraine, together with the United States and the European Union, has also been working on a peace initiative aimed at ending the war. The proposal includes a ceasefire, the withdrawal of troops from the current front line and security guarantees for Ukraine from NATO and the EU.

Meanwhile, France, Germany and the United Kingdom are working on a framework for future negotiations over Russia’s war against Ukraine. European countries are seeking to ensure their participation in the talks despite what Kyiv and its allies describe as Moscow’s reluctance to engage in substantive negotiations.

By Vafa Guliyeva