This segment discusses the upcoming third direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, set to take place in Istanbul, while analyzing the widening disconnect between diplomatic rhetoric and military strategy, particularly on the Western side.

Key Takeaways:

Russia-Ukraine Talks:

Scheduled to meet again in Istanbul.

Russia sees negotiations as a long process and has shifted from earlier, more moderate positions.

In 2022, Russia and Ukraine nearly reached a deal in Istanbul that would’ve kept Donetsk and Luhansk within Ukraine, guaranteed Russian language rights, and ensured Ukraine’s neutrality. Russia was even willing to withdraw its troops.

The U.S. allegedly sabotaged this deal, leading Russia to abandon diplomacy for military escalation.

Russia's Current Demands:

Permanent control of Crimea, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Donetsk, and Luhansk.

Western recognition of these areas as Russian territory.

Ukraine must expel NATO forces, cut off ties with Western military support, reduce its army, and become neutral.

New Russian advances in Sumy, Dnipro, and potentially Odessa are increasing pressure.

Ukraine's Stance:

Zelensky’s diplomacy focuses on two things: hurting Russia and getting more weapons.

His remarks highlight that Ukraine’s top diplomatic goal is to obtain military support, not compromise.

Western Contradictions:

While calling for peace, Western military leaders (e.g. Gen. Donahghue) continue provocative rhetoric about attacking Russian territory like Kaliningrad, escalating tensions.

Analysts mock the logistical incoherence of sending limited Patriot missiles (costing millions) to shoot down cheap drones, calling it absurd and unsustainable.

Zelensky’s Waning Support at Home:

Although praised abroad, Zelensky is facing increasing domestic discontent due to mounting casualties, resource shortages, and lack of progress.

Ukrainian parliament members are beginning to criticize his leadership and unrealistic reliance on Western backing.

Overall Message:

While the West frames Russia as intransigent, this analysis claims it is the U.S. and NATO's strategic missteps and refusal to compromise that are prolonging the war. The commentary portrays Russia as willing to negotiate within its new military gains, whereas Ukraine, backed by the West, is seen as demanding maximalist outcomes with dwindling capacity to enforce them.

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