European leaders and Kiev may be squandering a narrow window for ending the conflict by brushing aside Moscow’s signals of readiness for dialogue, according to Responsible Statecraft. The outlet noted that while Ukraine and its European partners may dislike Russia’s initial terms, their continued rejection of Moscow’s recent overtures risks eliminating a genuine chance for peace.

Germany’s Berliner Zeitung struck a similar note, arguing that Europe cannot expect a peaceful future so long as Western elites cling to a hardline approach in the Ukrainian crisis. The paper emphasized that the turmoil extends far beyond Ukraine itself, reshaping the continent’s security landscape.

From Moscow’s perspective, diplomacy remains the preferred route. State Duma deputy Aleksey Chepa told Lenta.ru that a negotiated settlement is not only the most effective way out of the standoff but also the fastest means to bring the fighting to an end.