Russian President Vladimir Putin said the war between Russia and Ukraine is coming to an end following a Moscow Victory Day parade [1].
This statement suggests a potential shift in the conflict's trajectory, signaling a willingness to engage in diplomatic resolutions after years of intense fighting.
Putin said during a press briefing on Red Square on May 9, 2024 [1]. He said that a three-day ceasefire [1], which was brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, provides hope that the conflict can finally be resolved [3].
"I think the war is coming to an end," Putin said [1].
While the president expressed optimism, he maintained specific conditions for direct diplomacy. He said he would be ready to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy face-to-face after the ceasefire, but only after the necessary groundwork is done [3].
The announcement came as Moscow celebrated Victory Day on May 9, 2024 [1]. The three-day window of ceased hostilities is intended to create space for progress toward negotiations [2].
Putin said the ceasefire and the current momentum toward talks give him reason to believe the conclusion of the war is near [1], [2].
“"I think the war is coming to an end."”
The timing of this statement, coinciding with a US-brokered ceasefire and a major Russian national holiday, indicates a strategic opening for diplomatic engagement. However, Putin's insistence on 'necessary groundwork' suggests that Russia may still require specific concessions or territorial acknowledgments before formal peace talks with Ukraine begin.
