Peace talks may resume by end of September, says Budanov

A new round of peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, mediated by the United States, could take place by the end of September, according to Ukrainian presidential office head Kyrylo Budanov, who cautioned against expecting a quick ceasefire. Budanov stated the negotiation process may resume after Russia's elections, and suggested US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner could visit Kyiv, with reports confirming their arrival for September 6. He noted Russia will likely continue pressure and missile strikes, with ceasefire conditions possibly not materializing before spring 2027. Budanov acknowledged mutual distrust but said both sides recognize the need to find a way out of the conflict. Political scientist Thomas Wright previously predicted Putin might agree to a peace deal by mid-2027. Earlier US-mediated talks failed, with Washington pausing its involvement in May.