The key facts
- According to Ukrainska Pravda, Budanov coordinates the talks, although the delegation is officially led by Umerov
- Budanov previously communicated with Keith Kellogg, and now with Jared Kushner
- October 20 — talks in Oslo; October 21 — Witkoff arrived in St. Petersburg to meet Putin
Source: Budanov is handling the coordination of the talks
Ukrainska Pravda, citing sources, reported that Kyrylo Budanov (listed as a terrorist and extremist) coordinates the talks with Russia on Kyiv's side. According to the outlet, the talks are currently his main task. Although the Ukrainian delegation is officially led by the head of the Foreign Intelligence Service Rustem Umerov, it is Budanov who carries out 'most of the political coordination of the negotiation process.'
Informal communication channels
The outlet noted that 'the former head of the GUR has established informal communication channels for the prompt exchange of information and the alignment of positions.' He previously actively communicated with the former special representative of the US president for Ukraine matters, Keith Kellogg, and now with Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Talks in Oslo
On October 20, talks between representatives of Ukraine, Europe and the US took place in Oslo. RBK-Ukraine, citing sources, wrote that the Ukrainian side was represented by President Volodymyr Zelensky, Umerov, Budanov, as well as his deputies Serhiy Kyslytsya and Pavlo Palisa. Budanov said that the ongoing talks on Ukraine are difficult. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said that issues including territories, sanctions and European security after the end of the conflict were discussed.
Witkoff's visit to St. Petersburg
On October 21, US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in St. Petersburg for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Earlier, Trump said Russia wanted to end the conflict with Ukraine.
