There is the reality on the ground, and a lot of hot air elsewhere. It is clear that Russia intends to destroy Ukraine’s power sources. The Institute for the Study of War, provides the most detailed update of this strategy. Their update as of December 15 states:
“Russian strikes appear to be advancing the Kremlin’s stated goal of degrading Ukraine’s energy infrastructure by splitting Ukraine’s power grid in half. Ukraine requires Western-provided air defense systems and partner support for its drone interceptor development to safeguard itself against increasingly devastating strikes on its energy infrastructure.”
From the above link, “Russian forces launched 9,298 drones and 270 missiles in October 2025, 5,444 drones and 216 missiles in November 2025, and 2,757 drones and 91 missiles in December 2025 as of December 15.”
Ukraine has counter-attacked with some recent successes. “Ukrainian forces conducted an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) strike against a Russian submarine for the first time in naval history on the night of December 14 to 15.”
Now, the hot air of the “Peace Talks.” From CNN reporting, “Roughly 90% of the issues between Russia and Ukraine have been solved, one of the US officials said earlier Monday, describing the issue of territorial concessions as a remaining sticking point. The US side offered ‘thought-provoking’ ideas on how to resolve the impasse, the official said, including the development of an ‘economic free zone.'”
So, this is all posturing for political reasons. I believe Russia has little interest in partial control of Ukraine. Trump dislikes long term security alliances, which is essential for Ukrainian security.
The invasion in Ukraine through Belarus began on February 4, 2022. Whenever the subject of Ukraine came up during the campaign, Trump had really just two pat answers to almost any question. One we heard a thousand times, and that was “This war would never have happened if I were president.” The second was “I will end the war on day one of my presidency.” Of course, the first statement was designed to put the blame on Biden (or later Harris) for not being tough on Putin. The second one was typical election rhetoric. It was similar to Ted Cruz, which promised to fix all problems on day one.
I’m sorry to say this, but the idea that the peace agreement is 90% done is just Trump administration’s political rhetoric. Per the CNN link below, “There is still no sign that Russian President Vladimir Putin actually wants a peace settlement, European and NATO officials have said. “
Ukraine presents response to US peace plan as Trump says European leaders want a meeting
One does not try to attack and destroy the energy infrastructure of a country it seeks to make peace with. Actions speak louder than words. Russia’s intent is to make Ukraine subservient part of Russia with a puppet regime in Kyiv.
Stay tuned,
Dave
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