On May 9, Vladimir Putin stated during a press conference that questions regarding Western attacks on Russia are "coming to an end." This statement was interpreted by Russian state media as an announcement of the end of the war in Ukraine. However, analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) emphasize that Putin has not provided any concrete indications that he intends to halt military operations.
ISW highlights that Putin explained the absence of military equipment at a recent military parade by stating that Russian forces must focus on the "complete defeat of Ukraine." This suggests that Russia continues to adhere to its maximalist goals of forcing the Ukrainian government to capitulate.
Additionally, the news agency Gazeta.ua reports that Putin reiterated that a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky can only take place in Moscow. This indicates that the Kremlin is unwilling to make compromises or hold talks outside of Russia.
ISW further analyzes that Putin's statements aim to appease the dissatisfaction of the Russian population, which is suffering from the consequences of the over four-year war. Despite the official rhetoric about an impending victory, the Russian army is in a difficult position at the front.
