Putin Says He Thinks Ukraine Conflict Is Coming to an End

Russia and Ukraine agreed to each release 1,000 prisoners and observe a ceasefire between May 9 and May 11.

Russian President Vladimir Putin talks to the media following his meetings with foreign delegations at the Kremlin in Moscow on May 9, 2026. Ramil Sitdikov/Pool/AFP via Getty Images

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered renewed optimism that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine could come to an end after more than four years of direct fighting.

“I think it’s coming to an end, but it’s still a serious matter,” Putin told reporters in Moscow on May 9, as Russia held Victory Day celebrations commemorating the end of World War II.