Putin Accuses Kyiv of Striking Polling Stations: “We Were Ready to Resume Negotiations”

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow had planned to resume negotiations with Kyiv after Russia’s Sept. 18–20 parliamentary elections. He alleged that Ukraine instead launched attacks on Moscow and polling stations, undermining immediate diplomatic efforts. Putin said peace proposals remained on the table, but Russia would first assess what serves its interests. Kyiv has not accepted the claims, while continuing to call for international pressure and meaningful talks. The allegations come as Washington seeks to revive negotiations and end war.