Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that the end of the war in Ukraine is near. However, he clarified that he will meet his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky only after a permanent peace agreement is established. Putin made these remarks to journalists at the Kremlin following the Victory Day parade, which was held on a limited scale for the first time in many years to commemorate the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany.
Russia observes May 9 as a national holiday to honor the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. According to a BBC editor present at the parade, this year there were no tanks or other military equipment displayed, which are typically showcased by the Kremlin as a demonstration of Russian military strength on the international stage. Steve Rosenberg, the BBC’s Russia editor attending the Victory Day parade on Red Square, noted a distinct difference this year. “This year’s edition felt very different. In previous years, one had to run from the media bus near St. Basil’s Cathedral to find a spot reserved for the press,” he commented.
Since the start of a three-day ceasefire on Saturday, Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of violations. Although no significant large-scale attacks have been reported, six people were injured in a Ukrainian drone attack in the Russian republic of Chechnya. At least three others were injured in separate drone strikes within Russia. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported two deaths and three injuries. The three-day ceasefire was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, who also mentioned that each side would exchange 1,000 prisoners during the ceasefire period.
The war has also severely impacted Russia’s economy.
