Kremlin Restates Putin War Nearing End

On May 12 2026, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated President Vladimir Putin's claim that the war in Ukraine is “almost over.” The comment followed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's May 11 statement that Russia has no intention of ending conflict and that Ukraine is preparing for new attacks. Peskov said the near-end assertion reflects trilateral work with Ukraine and United States.

The Hindu

The conflict entered its fifth year in 2026, with Russian forces occupying about one-fifth of Ukraine's territory. A U.S.-mediated ceasefire ran May 9-11. No large-scale airstrikes were reported, though each side accused the other of continued artillery and drone fire along the front.

The Hindu

• May 9 2026: President Vladimir Putin says the war is “coming to an end.”

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• May 9-11 2026: United States mediates a three-day ceasefire.

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• May 11 2026: Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Russia has no intention of ending the war and warns of new attacks.

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• May 12 2026: Peskov repeats Putin’s near-end claim, says Russia welcomes U.S. mediation and that Putin is ready to meet Zelenskyy once the peace process is finalized.

The Hindu

President Putin said the conflict is nearing its conclusion, noting a “certain amount of trilateral work” among Russia, Ukraine and United States has moved peace process forward. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov echoed this, saying groundwork makes completion appear close but finalisation needs preparation and a decision by Kyiv and President Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy countered, asserting Russia lacks any intention to end the war and warning Ukraine is preparing for new attacks. President Donald Trump has convened U.S.-mediated talks, yet no agreement has been reached.

The Hindu

Zelenskyy's remarks directly challenge the Kremlin's optimism, emphasizing that Russia shows no willingness to end hostilities and that Ukraine must brace for further attacks. This highlights Kyiv's skepticism about any imminent settlement.

The Hindu

The Kremlin says peace talks are near completion but gives no details on terms or timeline; Ukrainian officials have not outlined conditions for Russian withdrawal. The intensity of fighting during the May 9-11 ceasefire remains unverified, as both sides reported artillery and drone activity without independent confirmation.

The Hindu

• “I think that the matter is coming to an end,” — Vladimir Putin, President of Russia

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• “Russia has no intention of ending this war. And we are, unfortunately, preparing for new attacks.” — Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine

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• “This accumulated groundwork in terms of the peace process allows us to say that the completion is indeed approaching,” — Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin Spokesman

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• “U.S. mediation efforts” — Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin Spokesman

The Hindu

President Putin indicated willingness to meet President Zelenskyy once the peace process is finalized, and Kremlin said it would welcome further U.S. mediation. President Trump has signaled continued U.S. involvement in facilitating talks, suggesting additional diplomatic rounds may follow.

The Hindu