Like an object floating upwards yet still underwater, the bare, vague bones of a peace plan for Ukraine are taking shape. Despite a relative silence in policy announcements on this war from an otherwise vocal Trump administration,

U.S. President Donald Trump's plan for a quick settlement in Ukraine must not only stop the war but also ensure that there can no longer be any more Russian aggression, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in an interview broadcast on Sunday.

With its focus on war with its neighbor, Russia has taken its eyes off the ball elsewhere. As a result, its position is much weaker – but Putin remains dangerous.