Putin Says Ukraine War Could Be Nearing an End

By Aurax Radio | May 10, 2026 | 2 min read

Russian President Vladimir Putin said he believes the war in Ukraine may be approaching its conclusion as a temporary ceasefire took effect. The remarks came amid ongoing diplomatic efforts and continued skepticism from Ukraine and Western allies about Moscow’s intentions.

Vladimir Putin addressing reporters at the Kremlin after Victory Day celebrations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks after Victory Day commemorations in Moscow as discussions over a temporary Ukraine ceasefire continue.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday that he believes the war in Ukraine could be nearing an end, marking one of his strongest public suggestions in months that the conflict may eventually move toward a settlement.

Putin made the comments after Russia’s annual Victory Day commemorations in Moscow, which were held on a smaller scale than in previous years as the war continued into its fifth year. He also indicated a willingness to discuss broader European security arrangements and suggested he could meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a neutral country if a long-term peace agreement were reached.

The remarks followed the start of a three-day ceasefire brokered with support from U.S. President Donald Trump. Both Russia and Ukraine confirmed participation in the temporary truce, which also included plans for a prisoner exchange involving hundreds of detainees.

Despite the ceasefire, Kremlin officials cautioned that a broader peace agreement remains far away because of unresolved territorial and political disputes. Russia continues to demand concessions from Ukraine, including recognition of territories claimed by Moscow since the 2022 invasion, conditions Kyiv has repeatedly rejected.

Putin again blamed Western governments and NATO expansion for the conflict, arguments Russia has consistently used since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Ukraine and its allies maintain that the war was an unprovoked attack violating international law and Ukrainian sovereignty.

The conflict has caused widespread destruction across Ukraine, displaced millions of civilians and strained relations between Russia and Western nations. Although diplomatic contacts have increased in recent months, fighting has continued along large sections of the front line and previous ceasefire attempts have largely collapsed.

Analysts said Putin’s latest comments may reflect growing pressure to find a political solution as the war continues to weigh on Russia’s economy and military resources. However, Ukrainian officials and several European governments remain cautious about Moscow’s intentions, pointing to past failed negotiations and ongoing military operations.

Sources: Information was compiled from reporting by Reuters, Al Jazeera and Fox News.

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