On July 27, Russian President Putin made a startling statement: "The future of Russia is in grave danger!" His original words were: "Without exaggeration, this is a decisive phase in the history of our motherland; the fate and future of our people are hanging by a thread. This is no exaggeration—it is indeed the truth. In the fierce competition, the contours of a new world order are taking shape."
Currently, the war between Russia and Ukraine has lasted for five years with no sign of ending. If neither side yields, it might continue for another five years—possibly even until every Ukrainian is exhausted. Russia lacks the capacity to fully absorb Ukraine, and Ukraine certainly cannot defeat Russia. Both sides share Slavic roots and truly have no reason to keep slaughtering each other. Therefore, both parties should sit down and discuss all possible avenues for a peaceful resolution. It's time to stop fighting.
Of course, Russia should also take a step back. With its vast territory and sparse population, there is no need to annex more Ukrainian land. The Russian-speaking populations in the four eastern Ukrainian regions could be relocated to deeper parts of Russia, while these four regions should be barred from hosting Ukraine’s military forces—serving instead as a buffer zone between Russia and Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukraine should commit to permanent neutrality and never join NATO.
Of course, historically and culturally, Crimea should be returned to Russia, as it was originally transferred from Russian territory to Ukraine during the Soviet era, and the local population predominantly identifies with Russia.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1871926015696904/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.