Russian President Vladimir Putin says he believes the war in Ukraine is nearing an end, making the remark after Moscow’s Victory Day celebrations on Saturday. Multiple outlets report that Putin told reporters, “I think that the matter is coming to an end,” shortly after presiding over what was described as the most scaled-back parade in years on Red Square. Some coverage adds that the event included fewer military assets than in previous years, with heavy weapons notably absent for the first time in nearly two decades, according to France 24.
Alongside the “ending” comment, Putin also frames Russia’s involvement as a “just cause” and accuses Western countries of arming Ukraine. Several reports state that he says he is willing to negotiate new security arrangements for Europe. One outlet specifically reports Putin names Germany’s former chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a preferred negotiating partner. Other reporting emphasizes the timing of the comments amid ongoing fighting and heightened diplomatic pressure.
