German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of using what he described as a “deception manoeuvre” to distract from military difficulties, suggesting that recent comments about the end of the war in Ukraine may not be genuine.
Speaking during a visit to Kyiv on May 11, Pistorius said Putin could end the conflict “at any time” by withdrawing his forces or entering unconditional negotiations, but instead continues to impose demands, Caliber.Az reports via German media.
He added that he hoped he was wrong, but warned the remarks could form part of a broader strategy to mask weaknesses on the battlefield.
Pistorius also said Russian forces were currently making only limited territorial gains, arguing this could explain Moscow’s messaging. He reiterated that Western support for Ukraine should continue, including cooperation on the development and production of drones and other weapons systems, to ensure Kyiv is in a strong position ahead of any future talks.
The Kremlin leader recently suggested that the war in Ukraine was approaching its conclusion and floated former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a possible intermediary in talks with the European Union. That proposal was swiftly rejected by EU officials.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said it would be “not very wise” to allow Moscow to designate its own negotiator, while Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also dismissed the idea, saying Kyiv would not support Schröder’s involvement and that other credible figures could instead take part in any diplomatic process.
The German government has also expressed scepticism, with officials saying there is “no substantial progress” in Russia’s position and calling for an immediate ceasefire if Moscow is serious about negotiations.
By Aghakazim Guliyev
