Kremlin explains why it began speaking about possible end of war against Ukraine

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has explained Russian ruler Vladimir Putin's remarks about the alleged approaching end of the war against Ukraine by referring to "progress" in the peace process and US mediation efforts, though he gave no specific timeline.

Source: Telegram channel Vy slushali mayak (You have been listening to Radio Mayak), which published Peskov's audio comments; Kremlin-aligned Russian news agency TASS

Details: Peskov was asked about Putin's remarks at a press conference on Saturday, where he claimed that the "conflict around Ukraine is approaching its end", and whether there was any understanding of possible timelines.

In response, the Kremlin spokesman claimed that Russia remains open to dialogue and also welcomed continued US mediation efforts.

Quote: "The body of work accumulated within the peace process makes it possible to say that the end is indeed approaching. But it is not yet possible to speak about any specifics in this context.

You know that the humanitarian truce has ended, and the special military operation [as the Russians refer to their unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine – ed.] continues."

Details: However, Peskov claimed that the war could stop "at any moment" if Kyiv made the "necessary decisions".

Quote: "It can stop at any moment as soon as the Kyiv regime and Zelenskyy assume responsibility and make the necessary decisions. What decisions need to be made is well known in Kyiv."

Details: The Kremlin spokesman added that Putin is supposedly ready "at any moment" to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Moscow for negotiations.

According to Peskov, a meeting in another location "would make sense only for finalising the settlement process", but for that "a great deal of homework" still needs to be done.

Background:

• On 9 May, Putin claimed that Russia's war against Ukraine is "approaching its end". He also said he is aware of Zelenskyy's readiness for negotiations but called on him to come to Moscow.
• Putin also said he would not rule out a meeting with Zelenskyy in a third country, though he insisted that such a format would only be possible for the "final signing of agreements".
• The Kremlin leader also claimed that Russian forces are inspired by Soviet soldiers of World War II.

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