Vladimir Putin on Saturday suggested that the war in Ukraine may be nearing its end, giving one of Moscow’s clearest signals yet that diplomatic negotiations could soon take priority after more than four years of fighting.

Speaking during Russia’s Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, Putin told reporters, “I think that the matter is coming to an end,” during a tightly secured ceremony in the Russian capital. His statement came as Russia and Ukraine began a three-day ceasefire proposed by Donald Trump. At the same time, both countries agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners each in one of the largest prisoner swaps since the conflict began.

Kremlin Hints at Fresh Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

Putin’s remarks quickly attracted global attention because the Kremlin has consistently projected military strength throughout the war. However, the Russian president’s latest comments suggested that diplomatic efforts may now be gaining momentum behind the scenes.

“There is a feeling now that Moscow wants to signal that talks are no longer off the table,” a European diplomat reportedly said after Putin’s speech. As a result, analysts and diplomats now believe Russia could be more willing to explore negotiations after years of heavy fighting, economic sanctions, and international pressure.

Russia Holds Scaled-Down Victory Day Parade Amid Ukraine War

This year’s Victory Day parade in Moscow looked noticeably different from previous celebrations. Unlike earlier military parades on Red Square, Russia did not display tanks rolling through central Moscow. Instead, giant screens showcased advanced missiles, drones, and fighter jets.

Meanwhile, Russian soldiers who fought in Ukraine marched along the Kremlin walls during the event. During his eight-minute speech, Putin praised Russian troops and accused NATO of supporting what he described as an “aggressive force” against Russia. Reports also claimed that North Korean soldiers who allegedly fought alongside Russian troops in the Kursk region participated in the parade.

Putin Names Gerhard Schroeder While Discussing Europe Relations

Putin also hinted at how Russia could reopen diplomatic communication with European countries in the future. When reporters asked whether he would engage with European leaders again, Putin named former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder as his preferred contact.

“For me personally, the former Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Mr. Schroeder, is preferable,” Putin said. Meanwhile, the Kremlin continued to argue that European governments severed ties with Moscow after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Russian officials also insisted that Western countries should take the first step toward restoring dialogue.

Putin Sets Condition for Meeting Zelenskyy

Putin also addressed the possibility of holding direct talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Russian leader said he would only meet Zelenskyy after both countries agreed on the framework for a long-term peace settlement. Consequently, his remarks suggested that Moscow still wants broader political agreements finalized before direct negotiations between the two leaders take place.

Donald Trump Calls for Extended Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire

Meanwhile, Donald Trump pushed for a longer ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. “I’d like to see it stop. Russia-Ukraine — it’s the worst thing since World War Two in terms of life,” Trump told reporters in Washington.

He also expressed hope that the current three-day ceasefire could become “a big extension”. So far, neither side has reported any major ceasefire violations, although both Russia and Ukraine accused each other of attacks in recent days before the truce started.

Russia-Ukraine War Remains Europe’s Deadliest Conflict Since WWII

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and since then the war has become Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. Hundreds of thousands of people have reportedly been killed or wounded, while many Ukrainian cities have suffered massive destruction.

At the same time, relations between Russia and Western nations have collapsed to Cold War-era lows. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted cautiously to Moscow’s Victory Day celebrations. He also joked that Ukraine would “allow” Russia’s parade to continue without targeting Red Square with Ukrainian weapons.