Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday that he believes the war in Ukraine could soon conclude, offering some of his most optimistic remarks yet about the conflict as diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes.
“I think that the matter is coming to an end,” Putin told reporters inside the Kremlin while discussing the nearly four-year war.
The Russian leader indicated that the United States has shown interest in helping mediate a resolution, describing Washington in unusually warm terms during his remarks.
Putin referred to the US as a “partner” and “friend,” grouping it together with countries such as China and India while discussing international involvement in the conflict.
“Clearly, they have no need for this conflict, as they have many other priorities,” he said.
“But this is, first and foremost, a matter for Russia and Ukraine.”
Putin also addressed the possibility of face-to-face talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying he would agree to a meeting in a neutral location only after all major terms of a peace arrangement are finalized.
“This must be the final step, not some negotiations,” Putin said, according to state-run TASS news agency.
“I have never refused” to meet Zelensky, he claimed. “I am not proposing this meeting, but if someone proposes it, then let them come. Whoever wants to meet should come to Moscow, and we will meet.”
During his comments, Putin also criticized Western governments, accusing “globalist” leaders of breaking promises made after the collapse of the Berlin Wall by allowing NATO to continue expanding eastward and drawing Ukraine closer to the alliance.
The remarks came shortly after Russia concluded its annual Victory Day observances commemorating the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. This year’s events unfolded alongside a temporary three-day cease-fire between Russian and Ukrainian forces that was facilitated by Washington.
President Donald Trump expressed hope that the pause in fighting could help move the war toward a conclusion.
“Hopefully, it is the beginning of the end of a very long, deadly, and hard fought War,” President Trump posted on Truth Social.
Trump also said the United States is prepared to dispatch senior officials to Moscow as part of renewed efforts to push negotiations forward.
“I would very much like to see the end of the conflict,” Trump told reporters during a press gaggle near the White House Saturday.
Despite the latest optimism, major disagreements remain unresolved. Negotiators are still divided over the future status and control of the disputed Donbas region, which continues to be one of the biggest obstacles to a broader settlement.
{Matzav.com}