Vladimir Putin has suggested Russia is close to securing victory in its war with Ukraine, outlining what he claims is driving the country’s progress.
Russia marked its annual Victory Day commemorations in Moscow yesterday (May 9), with the Red Square parade held to remember the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany during the Second World War.
While a number of overseas leaders were present, this year’s event appeared smaller and more restrained than in previous years.
In a notable departure from tradition, the parade went ahead without tanks, missile systems, or most other heavy equipment — though a customary flypast of military aircraft still took place.
Explaining the altered format, officials cited the “current operational situation” and referenced the possibility of Ukrainian strikes. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also said “additional security measures” had been introduced.
After the parade, Putin — who has led Russia for more than 25 years — claimed the conflict is nearing its conclusion, despite the war having continued for more than four years.
He praised Russian forces fighting in Ukraine, saying they “face an aggressive force that is armed and supported by the entire bloc of NATO” and insisted they were fighting for a “just cause”.
Putin went on: “Victory has always been and will be ours. The key to success is our moral strength, courage and valour, our unity and ability to endure anything and overcome any challenge.”
He continued to say of the war with Ukraine: “I think that the matter is coming to an end.”
His comments followed a three-day ceasefire announced for May 8, after Donald Trump said he had helped arrange a temporary pause — easing fears that Ukraine might attempt to disrupt the Victory Day events in Moscow.
The POTUS declared on Truth Social on Friday: “I am pleased to announce that there will be a THREE DAY CEASEFIRE (May 9th, 10th, and 11th) in the War between Russia and Ukraine. The Celebration in Russia is for Victory Day but, likewise, in Ukraine, because they were also a big part and factor of World War II.”
Trump’s statement continued: “This Ceasefire will include a suspension of all kinetic activity, and also a prison swap of 1,000 prisoners from each Country. This request was made directly by me, and I very much appreciate its agreement by President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
“Hopefully, it is the beginning of the end of a very long, deadly, and hard fought War. Talks are continuing on ending this Major Conflict, the biggest since World War II, and we are getting closer and closer every day.”