(SeaPRwire) –   On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his belief that the conflict with Ukraine might conclude in the near future.

“I believe the situation is nearing its conclusion,” Putin reportedly informed journalists, as per Reuters.

Putin’s remarks followed former President Trump’s announcement of a three-day ceasefire, intended to commemorate the Soviet Union’s World War II victory and facilitate a significant prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine.

The truce commenced on Saturday and is scheduled to last until Monday, Trump stated on Truth Social. He noted, “The celebration in Russia is for Victory Day but, similarly, in Ukraine, as they too played a substantial role and factor in World War II.”

He further elaborated, “This cessation of hostilities will encompass a halt to all kinetic operations, alongside an exchange of 1,000 prisoners from each nation.” Trump added, “This proposal originated directly from me, and I am highly appreciative of its acceptance by President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.”

The occasion was marked by Russia’s most subdued Victory Day parade in recent memory.

The conflict in Ukraine has persisted for over four years since Russia’s invasion in February 2022; despite initial Kremlin expectations of a swift victory, Russia has yet to fully capture the Donbass region.

When questioned about discussions with European leaders, Putin informed journalists he would favor speaking with German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder.

He further stated that he would only contemplate engaging with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy once a durable peace agreement had been finalized.

Via X, Zelenskyy verified the prisoner exchange involving individuals captured throughout the four-year conflict, which commenced with Russia’s full-scale invasion of its neighboring country.

He posted, “As part of the negotiation process facilitated by the American side, we secured Russia’s consent for a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 individuals from each side.” He continued, “A ceasefire must also be implemented on May 9, 10, and 11. Ukraine is diligently striving to repatriate its citizens from Russian detention. I have directed our team to swiftly make all necessary preparations for this exchange.”

Zelenskyy additionally extended gratitude to Trump for his diplomatic engagement in the proceedings and expressed his hope that the United States would ensure Moscow adheres to the accord.

‘ Louis Casiano contributed to this dispatch.