WASHINGTON — President Donald J. Trump signaled cautious optimism about the future of the Russia–Ukraine war, suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin is seeking an end to the conflict.

“Look, the war is going to end. When it ends, I can’t tell you. But the war is going to end … Putin wants it to end,” Trump told reporters, offering one of his most direct remarks on Moscow’s intentions.

The president did not elaborate on specific diplomatic steps underway, but his comments hint at behind-the-scenes discussions and renewed efforts to bring both sides to the negotiating table.

Trump has consistently expressed confidence in his ability to broker peace, framing himself as uniquely positioned to pressure Moscow and Kyiv toward a settlement. Critics, however, warn that Putin’s definition of “ending the war” could still involve territorial concessions from Ukraine — a prospect that remains deeply contentious.