US-Russia Deal to Proceed, With or Without Ukraine

Talks to end the war in Ukraine are stuck again, with the main problem being land. Both sides cannot agree on who will control territory like the Donbas region. US Vice President J.D. Vance recently confirmed that "the thorniest issues have never been resolved." This means negotiations are at a difficult point. Despite this, American officials suggest there is still reason for hope. Reports indicate that the United States and Russia are determined to reach an agreement. A key point is that this push for a deal, or *détente*—a French term meaning an easing of tensions—is moving forward. Analysts say it may happen even if Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky, does not fully agree.