SouthernWorldwide.com – Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his belief that the conflict with Ukraine is nearing its conclusion.
Putin stated to reporters, “I think that the matter is coming to an end,” as reported by Reuters.
These remarks from Putin followed an announcement by former President Donald Trump regarding a three-day ceasefire. This ceasefire was initiated to coincide with the Soviet Union’s Victory Day celebration and a significant prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine.
The ceasefire commenced on Saturday and is scheduled to continue through Monday, Trump disclosed on his social media platform, Truth Social. He elaborated that while the occasion in Russia is Victory Day, it also holds significance for Ukraine due to their substantial role in World War II.
Trump further detailed that this ceasefire would involve a cessation of all military actions, alongside a prisoner swap involving 1,000 individuals from each nation. He emphasized that this initiative was a direct request from him, and he expressed gratitude for the agreement from both President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The Victory Day commemoration in Russia this year was marked by its most subdued parade in recent memory.
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The war in Ukraine has now persisted for over four years, commencing with Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Despite initial expectations from the Kremlin for a swift victory, Russia has yet to achieve full control over the Donbas region.
During his press conference, Putin was asked about potential discussions with European leaders. He indicated a preference for engaging with former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder.
Furthermore, Putin suggested that he would only entertain direct talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy once a stable peace agreement has been finalized.
On the social media platform X, President Zelenskyy confirmed the prisoner exchange that occurred within the context of the four-year conflict, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of its neighbor.
Zelenskyy wrote, “Within the framework of the negotiating process mediated by the American side, we received Russia’s agreement to conduct a prisoner exchange in the format of 1,000 for 1,000.” He added, “A ceasefire regime must also be established on May 9, 10, and 11. Ukraine is consistently working to bring its people home from Russian captivity. I have instructed our team to promptly prepare everything necessary for the exchange.”
President Zelenskyy also extended his thanks to former President Trump for his diplomatic efforts in facilitating this process. He further expressed his hope that the United States would ensure Russia adheres to the terms of the agreement.
