Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that he believes the conflict with Ukraine is drawing to a close, speaking to journalists following a subdued military parade in Moscow commemorating the Soviet triumph in World War Two.

"I think that the matter is coming to an end," Putin remarked, alluding to Russia's "special military operation" in Ukraine, as he criticized the West's backing of Kyiv's leadership.

The traditional Russian parade omitted its customary array of tanks and missiles, prompted by security worries that Ukrainian drones might strike Red Square.

A sudden ceasefire, arranged by U.S. President Donald Trump between Moscow and Kyiv, minimized the risk of assault, allowing the event to proceed smoothly.

Putin's remarks followed closely after his Victory Day address, where he defended the ongoing war.

During the speech, he described Russia's campaign as a "just" endeavor and portrayed Ukraine as an "aggressive force" bolstered by the entire NATO alliance.

At a subsequent press conference, responding to questions on Western aid to Ukraine, Putin noted: "They (West) promised assistance and then began fuelling a confrontation with Russia that continues to this day. I think that the matter is coming to an end, but it is a serious matter."

Russian troops annexed Crimea and portions of eastern Ukraine in 2014, escalating to a comprehensive invasion in February 2022.

Putin indicated he would engage with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky only after securing a durable peace agreement.

"A meeting in a third country is also possible, but only once final agreements have been reached on a peace treaty for a long-term historical perspective, to take part in this event and sign (treaty), but it must be a final step," he added.

Putin acknowledged reports of Zelensky's willingness for a direct meeting, but cautioned "this is not the first time we have heard such statements."

He expressed readiness to discuss fresh European security frameworks, naming Germany's ex-Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as his top choice for talks.

Schröder, a close Putin ally, remains divisive due to his roles with Russian state energy companies.

Recently, European Council President António Costa indicated potential for EU-Russia dialogue, noting Zelensky's support. As cited in the Financial Times, Costa mentioned consulting EU heads on "what we need effectively to discuss with Russia when it comes to the right moment to do this."

Under the U.S.-facilitated weekend ceasefire, Kyiv and Moscow committed to exchanging 1,000 prisoners each. However, Putin reported Saturday that Russia had received no updates from Ukraine on the swaps.

For the first time in almost 20 years, Red Square's parade featured no military equipment - a staple the Kremlin uses to flaunt Russia's might globally.

Attendance by journalists was sharply reduced, with numerous international outlets denied entry.