On August 6, the Center for Public Analytics “Vezha” hosted a discussion between Valerii Klochok and Ukrainian political scientist Volodymyr Fesenko on prospects for ending the war in Ukraine. The experts examined the possibility of peace agreements, the importance of the expected visit of Witkoff to Moscow, and the potential start of phased ceasefire negotiations.
Fesenko noted that there are no great expectations for a quick result. According to him, Putin agreeing even partially to Trump’s demands by August 8 would seem a sign of weakness. The main scenario is the launch of negotiations for a phased ceasefire, possibly at the next round in Istanbul, though this is just an initial step and does not guarantee quick results.
Russian demands for territorial concessions remain in place, hostilities continue, and a possible airspace ceasefire is regarded by Fesenko as a likely compromise. Even so, a full peace agreement is seen as unlikely, with most efforts aimed at stabilizing the front and increasing pressure on Russia.
Asked about international pressure, Fesenko stressed that sanctions and restrictions cannot force Russia to change quickly, and decisions on weapons supplies are slow. The analyst pointed out that while Western aid may not be enough to win, it will likely prevent defeat.
Overall, the participants agreed that a swift end to the war is unlikely and that Ukraine’s success depends on resilience, growing pressure on Russia, and future diplomatic progress involving the US, Europe, and international partners.
