Any discussion on resolving the war in Ukraine must begin with two fundamental realities: Russia is unable to achieve its military objective to defeat and occupy Ukraine, and Ukraine cannot fully expel Russia from its borders. Wars end in either victory for one side or a negotiated settlement.

Since neither side can defeat the other, this war will end in a negotiated settlement that neither side will be happy with. Such is the case with the 28-point plan recently proposed by the United States. Many in the West believe the proposal is too kind to Russia, but unless they are prepared to deploy enough troops to expel Russia, these criticisms, however fair, are moot.