Don’t look up: watch “peace deal”
It’s remarkable how world leaders skillfully avert their eyes from harsh realities, continuing to speak of some fanciful end to the war, and "security guarantees" that offer neither security nor guarantees. This diplomatic ballet feels especially detached from reality when viewed from Ukrainian cities under relentless drone and missile attacks. Meanwhile, China, Russia, North Korea and now India are openly signaling their readiness for confrontation, and a clear appetite to reshape the world order.
If U.S. President Donald Trump believed he could win over Russia by sacrificing Ukraine, that plan has clearly failed. Ukraine is holding the line, while Russian President Vladimir Putin continues signaling that China is a more suitable overlord for Russia than any partnership with the United States. Against this backdrop, the Alaska “peace deal” performance was doomed from the start, only reinforcing Putin’s belief that he needn’t fear decisive U.S. action against his aggression in Ukraine.
Russia is suffering dramatic losses in Ukraine, with negligible gains. But this doesn’t mean Moscow will end its aggression. Backed by China and emboldened by the United States’ cautious stance, the Kremlin will press on, possibly shifting to more aggressive tactics in hopes of achieving at least minor gains it can present as victories.
All talk of a possible end to the war, or even a temporary ceasefire, is wishful thinking. Ukrainians are deeply tired after four years of war, but the proposals being discussed effectively amount to surrender, and Ukrainian society is not ready to capitulate to the aggressor. Russia will only stop its aggression when it faces real financial pressure, which is not the case now, as many countries, including EU members, continue to purchase Russian oil and gas. So the war drags on, with no end in sight.
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