Putin says he thinks Ukraine conflict 'coming to an end'

The Russian leader sees potential for Ukraine negotiations, but condemns the West's backing for President Zelensky.

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Speaking after Saturday's scaled-back Victory Day military parade in Moscow, he said: "I think that the matter is coming to an end" - referring to the "special military operation" in Ukraine - while condemning Western support for Kyiv.

The parade - marking the Soviet victory in World War Two - lacked the usual display of tanks and missiles, as authorities feared Ukraine might target Red Square.

A US-brokered ceasefire reduced the danger of attacks and the parade passed off without incident. However Ukraine and Russia later accused each other of violating the three-day truce.

Putin's comments came just hours after he used his annual Victory Day speech to justify the war.