Putin: "The conflict in Ukraine is coming to an end. We are ready for dialogue with the European Union."

"The Ukrainian conflict is coming to an end," Russian President Vladimir Putin said, according to RIA Novosti and Tass. The statement came on the day of the traditional parade in Moscow marking the anniversary of Russia's victory over the Nazis in World War II, which was celebrated on a smaller scale this year. "In Ukraine, we are fighting against an aggressive force supported by all of NATO," the Tsar said in his speech during the event.

Putin also commented on European Council President Antonio Costa's proposal to initiate a new dialogue between Brussels and the Kremlin. Russia, the Moscow leader said, "has never refused" to hold negotiations with the EU. "As a candidate for the role of negotiator," Putin added, "I would prefer former German Chancellor Schroeder. Otherwise, let them choose a leader they trust."

(Unioneonline)