[marcusmaximus]

Putin has already punted on wanting the entire Black Sea coast.

In the negotiations with Ukraine today, Putin now says he only wants:

1. Crimea for Russia (which he already has)

2. Independence for DPR and LPR. He doesn’t even get Mariupol.

All that, for no territory gains for Russia.

[Travis McGee]

Gotta source/link on that?

Not doubting you, just want more info. Thanks.

[pierrem15]

Good catch. Although recognition of the Crimea annexation would be touted as a "gain" by Putin, especially if it comes from the West.

That's actually a high price for us to pay, which I think could be used to shoe-horn the US into the negotiations and try to get a lasting peace supported by real treaties that restore some semblance of the old order in Europe.

A big bone of contention is who is going to pay for Ukraine's restoration. I would say let the EU pick up the tab along with an admission date for Ukraine.

[CarolinaReaganFan]

Mariupol is part of DPR