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The ISW has explained what Putin’s hint about the end of the war in Ukraine actually means

The ISW has explained what Putin’s hint about the end of the war in Ukraine actually means

11 May 2026, 11:17

The ISW has explained what Putin’s hint about the end of the war in Ukraine actually means — Vladimir Putin

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has hinted that the war in Ukraine may soon come to an end. However, there are as yet no signs that the Kremlin intends to end its aggression.

This is stated in a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

During a press conference on 9 May, Putin responded to questions regarding the possible involvement of Western countries in recent Ukrainian long-range strikes on Russian territory. Commenting on the situation, he stated that “the matter is coming to an end”, whilst once again repeating the Kremlin’s traditional justifications for the war against Ukraine.

Analysts note that Russian state media presented these words as if Putin had explicitly declared the war would soon end. However, in reality, he gave no indication that Moscow was ready to cease its aggression.

On the contrary, during his speech, Putin emphasised that Russian troops must “focus on the final defeat of Ukraine”.

The ISW believes that such rhetoric indicates the Kremlin’s strategic goal remains unchanged: the capitulation of the Ukrainian state.

Furthermore, the Russian dictator reiterated his previous demand regarding a possible meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

According to him, such a meeting could only take place in Moscow, which effectively rules out negotiations on neutral territory.

Analysts emphasise that the Kremlin continues to demonstrate a reluctance to hold immediate bilateral talks to end the war.

According to the ISW, Putin’s statements are primarily aimed at a domestic Russian audience, which is increasingly feeling the effects of more than four years of war, as well as the inability of the Russian defence system to effectively counter Ukraine’s long-range strikes.

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