Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy finds himself in a precarious position, lacking the political and military leverage to negotiate favorable terms with either Russia or Western allies. As the war grinds on, the prospect of a painful peace looms, with no clear gain for the Ukrainian people to offset the sacrifices made.
"The president seems unable to secure for Ukrainian people a gain that can compensate for a painful peace."
Zelenskyy's room for maneuver has dwindled amid battlefield stalemates and wavering international support. Without a decisive advantage, Ukraine faces the grim reality of a settlement that may involve territorial concessions or security compromises, neither of which would satisfy domestic expectations or strategic interests.