We all agree that Russia needs an “out” with some semblance of honor.
Tragically, for all involved, that ship has sailed.
I don’t see any real way out of the conflict in a manner that saves face. The invader (Putin) is forever labeled a war criminal, has failed to achieve objectives, and has exposed his conventional Army as an inept enterprise with chronic deficiencies.
Putin’s decision still makes little sense to me and it is obvious that he was thoroughly detached by decades of having his Generals pump sunshine up his rear and his own FSB and intel weenies assuring him that the average Ukrainian would welcome his steady hand as leader.
I thought it was irrational when he invaded and very frightening given their nuclear arsenal, a point seemingly lost on Western media and leaders. The culture of Russia does not allow for failure like this without a major purge and that has already begun in Moscow.
I would love to see it end but do not see a path forward that Putin can survive so the meat-grinder continues. It is hard to see a scenario where Putin survives this and Russia feels more secure afterwards.
Do what the US does, declare victory and leave. Have a big parade honoring the hero’s of Donbas. Who cares? Russia has embarrassed itself enough, no saving face on this mess!