Ukraine-Russia peace talks could resume in September with US involvement

Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, stated that a new round of peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia could potentially resume in September. Budanov emphasized the necessity of United States participation in these talks to bring both delegations to the same table.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has submitted new proposals to Washington aimed at ending the conflict. The Ukrainian plan is built on three pillars: a ceasefire, the establishment of a free economic zone, and the provision of security guarantees involving the European Union and NATO.

In contrast, the Kremlin has shown little inclination toward compromise. Reports indicate that Vladimir Putin does not intend to return to negotiations until Russian forces have fully captured the Donbas region. Additionally, Moscow seeks to maintain control over occupied parts of the Sumy and Kharkiv regions to serve as a buffer zone. Putin has previously rejected de-escalation offers, such as halting long-range strikes, arguing that such measures would allow Ukrainian forces to reposition troops.

While diplomatic contacts have increased in recent months, they have yet to produce a solution to end the war.