Many Western analysts and politicians make a serious mistake in thinking that Russia already suffered a defeat in Ukraine. The reality is that Ukraine has serious problems in mobilization, economics, and demographics. The collapse of statehood and the cessation of the Ukrainian nation aren't merely theoretical concepts but potential goal that Russia can achieve if Ukraine won’t receive necessary support.

A peace deal with Russia that involves ceding territories would likely lead to the mobilization of local inhabitants into the Russian army, as seen in Donetsk, where the entire male population has been conscripted, and local estates and businesses were overtaken by Russians or their puppet government.

There exists no middle ground or partial solution. It's either Ukraine wins, or it faces not only the loss of statehood but also the erosion of its national identity through forceful Russification.