Vladimir Putin said he believes the war in Ukraine is coming to an end, signaling the possibility of a resolution to the conflict that has raged for more than four years.
"I believe that the war is coming to an end," the Russian president said during a statement to reporters, referring to the war in Ukraine.
Putin's comments come after the Financial Times reported that European Union leaders are preparing for possible talks with Moscow.
Asked if he is willing to engage in dialogue with Europeans, Putin cited former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, known for his close relations with the Kremlin, as a favorite figure.
The Kremlin has argued that the first step towards resuming contacts should come from European countries, as according to Moscow they cut off communication with Russia after the start of the war in 2022.
Putin also stated that he is ready to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but only after a lasting peace agreement is reached.
The Russian president also spoke about the proposal announced by Donald Trump regarding a major prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine.
According to Putin, Moscow has not yet received an official response from the Ukrainian side.
"The Ukrainian side must respond to the proposal made by the president of the United States. Unfortunately, to date we have not received any proposal," he said.
