Donald Trump has a strong incentive to end the war quickly, as failure would reflect poorly on him politically.

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.

The war in Ukraine could continue indefinitely, with any ceasefire likely being a temporary pause before Putin seeks further expansion.

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.

America can exert significant pressure on Ukraine and Putin, but it's much easier to pressure Zelensky, complicating the peace process.

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

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

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

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.