Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks at a press conference in Moscow, Russia, on May 9, 2026. [Reuters/Ramil Sitdikov/Pool]

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday (the 9th) that he believes the war in Ukraine is nearing its end.

According to Reuters, President Putin stated, "I think the issue is entering its final stage," a remark made the day after President Trump announced a three-day ceasefire.

President Trump announced that the ceasefire would begin on Saturday and continue through Monday.

Trump wrote on social media, "Russia's commemorative event is Victory Day, but Ukraine also played an important role in World War II, so it is a commemorative event for the same reason."

President Trump declared May 8, 2026, the date of the announcement, as Victory Day for World War II. This commemorates the day Nazi Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allied forces on May 8, 1945.

The United States has traditionally emphasized September 2, the date of Japan's surrender, but President Trump, following last year, declared May 8, the date of Germany's surrender, as Victory Day this year, highlighting its significance. The Soviet Union (now Russia) and the United States were key members of the Allied forces alongside Great Britain in the World War against Nazi Germany.

NNP=Chief Reporter Sung Ku Hong / Special Contribution NNP info@newsandpost.com