Putin says Ukraine war nearing end and signals talks with Schroeder as envoy

His preferred negotiator is not a diplomat, but Schroeder

Russian President Vladimir Putin said the Ukraine conflict is nearing its end and indicated he is open to talks. He suggested former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder as his preferred negotiator, while European Union leaders are reportedly preparing for potential discussions. Moscow has previously urged European governments to initiate contact after cutting ties in 2022.