Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated that the war in Ukraine may be approaching its final phase, marking a notable rhetorical shift after Russia’s annual Victory Day celebrations.
Speaking to reporters in Moscow recently, Putin said, “I think that the matter is coming to an end,” suggesting the possibility of de-escalation after more than four years of conflict.
His remarks came alongside a fragile three-day ceasefire, reportedly supported by US President Donald Trump, which began last week. While both sides have accused each other of minor violations, there have been no reports of large-scale strikes, offering a rare pause in the fighting.
Putin also addressed the prospect of direct talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, he set clear conditions, stating that any meeting would only take place after a draft peace agreement has been finalized.
“It is possible to meet in a third country, but only if final agreements have been reached on a peace treaty," he clarified, adding that any settlement must be built on a “long-term historical perspective."
