Speaking on a YouTube channel, Nicholas Petro, a political science professor at the University of Rhode Island, said Ukraine can survive only if it enters negotiations. He argued that Moscow is still prepared to discuss peace initiatives, which, in his view, leaves Kyiv a window to «bargain for something».

Petro added that many Ukrainian analysts who oppose or doubt the government’s current strategy contend Kyiv should begin talks now to secure the most advantageous agreement possible.

He also cited demographic data, noting that Ukraine’s population stands at about 28.7 million, down from 52 million in 1991. He said the country is experiencing record-high mortality and extremely low birth rates-trends that, in his assessment, bode poorly for Kyiv.

Petro concluded that Ukraine should pursue a peace settlement at the first opportunity, since the only alternative to negotiations, as he framed it, would be capitulation.