Kremlin signals conclusion to Ukraine war as Victory Day parade proceeds without hardware

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that the conflict in Ukraine is coming to an end, a declaration made following a significantly scaled-back Victory Day parade in Moscow. The event, which commemorated the Soviet victory in World War Two, proceeded without the usual display of military hardware, including tanks and missiles. This absence marked the first such occurrence in nearly two decades and was attributed to security concerns regarding potential drone attacks on Red Square.

The parade took place under the shadow of a last-minute ceasefire brokered by US President Donald Trump, which reduced the immediate risk of aerial strikes. Despite the lack of military hardware, the Kremlin maintained the event's significance, though access for international media was severely restricted with many organisations denied entry. During a subsequent news conference, Putin condemned Western support for the Kyiv government, arguing that such assistance had fuelled a confrontation that was now moving towards a conclusion.

Regarding the future of the war, Putin reiterated that he would only meet President Volodymyr Zelensky once a final peace treaty has been agreed upon. While acknowledging that a meeting in a neutral third country is possible, the Russian leader emphasised that any such engagement must be contingent on the signing of a lasting agreement to ensure a long-term historical perspective. He noted that while Zelensky had previously expressed readiness for a personal meeting, previous statements of this nature had not resulted in immediate action.

In the context of future European security arrangements, Putin identified former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as his preferred negotiating partner. The Russian leader cited their longstanding friendship as the basis for this choice, although Schröder remains a controversial figure in Germany due to his past work for Russian state-owned energy firms. This suggestion comes as diplomatic dynamics appear to be shifting, with speculation that talks could occur outside of Moscow.

The ceasefire deal also included an agreement for a prisoner swap involving 1,000 detainees from each side. However, Putin stated that Russia had not yet received confirmation from Ukraine regarding the exchange, leaving the timeline for the release of prisoners uncertain. This lack of coordination highlights the ongoing friction between the two nations despite the temporary reduction in hostilities.

The announcement follows a recent Victory Day speech in which Putin justified the war as just and labelled Ukraine an aggressive force supported by the NATO bloc. With the conflict described as nearing its end, the focus now shifts to the conditions required for a final settlement, with the Russian leadership maintaining that Western backing for Kyiv remains a central grievance in their diplomatic stance.