Putin Leads Subdued Victory Day Parade, Says Ukraine War Nearing End (politico.eu)

• Putin led a scaled-down Victory Day parade in Moscow on May 9.
• He stated the Ukraine war is 'coming to an end'.
• The smaller parade highlights Russia's ongoing strain.

"President Vladimir Putin led a scaled-down Victory Day parade in Moscow on Saturday, marking the 81st anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. In his remarks, Putin told reporters that the war in Ukraine is "coming to an end." The parade was notably smaller than in previous years, reflecting the ongoing strain from the conflict that has now lasted over three years. Putin's statement, while vague, is one of the most direct acknowledgments from the Kremlin that the war may be winding down."