Zelensky deserves respect for unifying Ukraine and galvanizing support during the war, but whether he can negotiate peace remains to be seen, especially given the suffering his people have endured.

The blowup between Zelensky and Trump was a disturbing moment, especially given the timing and the pressure Zelensky was under.

There has to be frustration about why leaders like Putin, Zelensky, and Trump can't just meet in a room together without signing anything.

Both Trump and Putin seem to want peace, which could lead to an end to the war in Ukraine if they can find common ground.

Zelensky's exhaustion was evident during the meeting with Trump, and he seemed unprepared for the political dynamics at play.

I have a close relationship with both Russia and Ukraine, and I advocate for peace, emphasizing that resolution can only come through negotiation.

In negotiations, the temptation to push for victory can prevent peace talks, as seen in Ukraine's missed opportunities for ceasefires during moments of military strength in 2022.

The easy shortcut is to punish Ukraine, but we must avoid that to prevent rewarding aggressors and punishing victims.

In conflicts like Ukraine and Taiwan, the U.S. must recognize its limitations and avoid aggressive posturing that could lead to war.