The recent meeting in Istanbul between Russia and Ukraine, typically expected to move toward peace, appears to have had the opposite effect. Rather than progressing toward an end to the conflict, both sides presented proposals that made a negotiated settlement even more unlikely, signaling a continuation—and possible escalation—of the war.

Colonel Douglas Macgregor argues that:

The summit was a charade: He believes only Russia is serious about ending the war, while Ukraine’s leadership is entrenched in denial and pursuing unattainable goals.

Ukraine's military is collapsing: Citing massive casualties (upwards of 1.5 million dead) and recent resignations from high-ranking Ukrainian military officials, Macgregor contends that Ukrainian forces are on the verge of collapse.

Zelensky's strategy is to drag in the U.S. militarily: Like Netanyahu in Israel, Zelensky is not seeking peace but rather trying to provoke deeper American military involvement by painting a narrative of strength and momentum.

Drone attacks inside Russia (e.g., Operation Spiderweb) are described as symbolic and aided by U.S. and UK intelligence, but militarily insignificant.

Zelensky’s demands (Russia gets nothing, no territorial concessions) are viewed as delusional and designed to make peace talks impossible.

The West, particularly Washington, is focused on optics: The real strategy is shaping perceptions to keep support flowing, even if the reality on the battlefield is bleak.

In conclusion, Macgregor suggests that current diplomacy is performative and detached from battlefield realities, with the primary goal being to manipulate Western narratives and keep international support for Ukraine alive, despite the crumbling situation on the ground.

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