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Putin claims Ukraine war approaching its final phase
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Friday that Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine is drawing to a close, speaking to reporters following a subdued Victory Day parade in the capital.
Victory Day parade scaled back amid security fears
This year's annual commemoration of the Soviet Union's World War II victory in Moscow featured no tanks or missiles on Red Square, a departure from tradition. Kremlin officials cited concerns that Ukraine might launch drone strikes during the event.
A temporary ceasefire, brokered by former U.S. President Donald Trump, helped avert any attacks, allowing the ceremony to proceed without disruption.
Putin justifies war, blames NATO for prolonging conflict
In his Victory Day address earlier the same day, Putin framed the invasion as a "just war," accusing Ukraine of acting as an "aggressive force" backed by NATO. At a subsequent press conference, he reiterated that Western support for Kyiv had only fueled hostilities.
"They promised assistance and then began fueling a confrontation with Russia that continues to this day. I think the matter is coming to an end, but it is a serious matter."
Vladimir Putin, Russian President
Conditions set for Zelensky meeting, prisoner swap discussed
Putin indicated he would only meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after a comprehensive peace agreement is finalized, potentially in a neutral country. He dismissed earlier reports of Zelensky's willingness to meet as unreliable, saying, "This is not the first time we have heard such statements."
Regarding negotiations, Putin named former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder-known for his ties to Russian energy firms-as his preferred intermediary for discussing new European security arrangements.
Ceasefire yields prisoner exchange, but delays persist
Under the U.S.-mediated truce, Russia and Ukraine agreed to swap 1,000 prisoners each. However, Putin claimed on Saturday that Moscow had yet to receive confirmation from Kyiv about the logistics of the exchange.
European Council President António Costa recently suggested the EU could explore talks with Russia, citing Zelensky's openness to dialogue. Costa told the Financial Times he was consulting member states on the timing and scope of potential negotiations.
Parade reflects shifting priorities
The absence of military hardware at this year's parade marked a first in nearly 20 years, signaling a shift in Russia's public messaging. International media access was also restricted, with fewer journalists permitted to cover the event.
