The belief that the conflict in Ukraine is coming to an end was expressed by Russia’s President, Vladimir Putin, setting conditions for a possible meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky.
“I believe that the conflict in Ukraine is coming to an end,” Russian President Vladimir Putin said today, the anniversary day of the end of the war with the Nazis.
In his remarks, Vladimir Putin left open the possibility of a meeting with Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, provided “there is a viable peace agreement.” He maintained, however, that “Russia has still not received a proposal from Ukraine for a prisoner exchange”, which was announced yesterday, Friday, by US President Donald Trump.
Meanwhile, the three-day ceasefire proved extremely fragile, as Ukraine and Russia exchanged accusations of violations of the three-day ceasefire earlier today with casualties on both sides.
“The Ukrainian side should respond to the proposal made by the president of the United States. Unfortunately, to date we have not received any proposal,” Vladimir Putin told reporters.
Talks with the EU;
At the same time, Vladimir Putin is keeping his cards close to his chest on possible negotiations with European Union leaders. Note that the Financial Times reported Thursday that European Union leaders are preparing for possible talks. Asked if he is willing to hold talks with the Europeans, Vladimir Putin said that “the personality he prefers is the former chancellor of Germany, Gerhard Schröder.”
However, the Kremlin argued last week that “the first move should be made by the Europeans”, as they are the ones who broke off contacts with Moscow in 2022 after the war in Ukraine began.
About Iran
Meanwhile, Vladimir Putin still expressed hope that the conflict with Iran would end as soon as possible. “If this does not happen, everyone will lose,” the Russian president stressed.
About Armenia
The Russian president also said it would be “reasonable” for Armenia to hold a referendum on its EU membership, since this country, a long-time ally of Moscow, hosted a European summit for the first time.
“It would make perfect sense to organise a referendum and ask Armenian citizens what their choice is. From there, we will also make our own choice,” Vladimir Putin said when asked about Yerevan’s European ambitions.
