HAPPY HOLIDAZE

Submitted by ub on
  • The diplomacy between Trump and Putin continues to hinge on the idea of a negotiated settlement to the war — one that many believe may involve territorial concessions by Ukraine. That possibility remains deeply controversial. euronews+2The Guardian+2
  • Russia appears to believe that the current U.S. administration is listening — in Putin’s words — to Russia’s justifications for the war, a perception Moscow says differs sharply from previous U.S. administrations’. PBS+1
  • For the U.S. and Europe, the ongoing negotiations present a fraught balancing act: pushing for peace while trying not to undercut Ukraine’s sovereignty or reward aggression. Many critics argue the current plan undermines Ukraine more than it restrains Russia. Times Union+2Atlantic Council+2
  • Despite diplomatic overtures, the fighting continues — high-stakes military operations, including drone and missile strikes, remain active. The Guardian+2Sky News+2
  • There’s no guarantee Russia will agree to a lasting ceasefire or abide by any territorial agreement. Moscow has already warned that Western weapon supplies (e.g. long-range missiles to Ukraine) could provoke further escalation. Military.com+1
  • Many in Europe — and a growing number in U.S. politics — view the proposed plan as dangerously favoring Russia, potentially undermining long-term security for Ukraine and setting problematic precedents
  • How European allies respond; their influence may prove decisive if any deal is to have legitimacy beyond just the U.S. and Russia.
  • Whether Russia and Ukraine can reach — and sustain — a ceasefire or if renewed military operations will derail diplomacy.
  • Domestic U.S. reactions: responses from lawmakers, public opinion, and allied countries may shape whether the current strategy survives.