ISW analyzes Putin's new signal on Russia-Ukraine war
Photo: Vladimir Putin (Getty Images)
Russian President Vladimir Putin has hinted that the war in Ukraine may soon come to an end. However, there are currently no signs that the Kremlin intends to end its aggression, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
During a press conference on May 9, Putin answered questions regarding the possible involvement of Western countries in recent Ukrainian long-range strikes on Russian territory. Commenting on the situation, he stated that the matter was coming to an end, while once again repeating the Kremlin’s traditional justifications for the war against Ukraine.
Analysts note that Russian state media presented these words as if Putin had directly announced the war’s imminent end. However, in reality, he did not indicate that Moscow is ready to cease its aggression.
On the contrary, during his speech, Putin emphasized that Russian troops must focus on the final defeat of Ukraine.
The ISW believes that such rhetoric indicates the Kremlin’s strategic goal remains unchanged: the capitulation of the Ukrainian state.
In addition, Putin reiterated his previous demand regarding a possible meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
According to him, such a meeting can only take place in Moscow, which effectively rules out negotiations on neutral territory.
Analysts note that the Kremlin continues to demonstrate a reluctance to hold immediate bilateral negotiations to end the war.
According to the ISW, Putin’s statements are primarily aimed at a domestic Russian audience, which is increasingly feeling the consequences of more than four years of war, as well as the inability of the Russian defense system to counter Ukraine’s long-range strikes.
Putin's statements
On May 9, during a speech at a military parade in Moscow, the Kremlin leader made a series of statements regarding the war against Ukraine, NATO, and the Soviet Union’s role in World War II.
Putin believes that the Russian-Ukrainian war is allegedly nearing its end.
"Matter is coming to an end," he said.
Putin also expressed his readiness to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy not only in Moscow but also on the territory of a third country.
He emphasized that such a meeting, in his words, should take place solely for the purpose of signing a final agreement.
In addition, the Kremlin leader called former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder the best negotiator for a possible dialogue between Russia and the European Union.
