I'm still moderately optimistic of more supplies of defensive weapons, and at least a change of tone over further sanctions. Russia's economy is finally starting to creak, and you'd think someone somewhere in the administration will drawn an analogy between tarrifs and sanctions as a mechanism for doing a deal.
Do you want a deal? Does Ukraine want a 'deal'? I think Putin would use a deal (cessation in conflict) to re-build. I would rather the West see an opportunity to f*ck Putin over proper. Only when he's strung on a lamp post or falls through a high window will there be a chance of long term cessation of aggression.
He's lost generals to assassination, he arrested and seized a gold Oligarch's estate, he's assassinated 2 of his own military leaders because he's probably under severe pressure. It's time to stick the knife in. Finish the job.
A 'deal' is not going to do the Ukraine or Europe any favours. A severely weakened and impotent Russia leaves China with a lame duck ally, if it isn't already. China and N Korea will only support Russia as long as the spondoolicks roll in. It's simple maths. If the money stops flowing because the Russian economy is teetering and there is signs the debt can't be paid off...
Trump is an idiot. With the USA on board with the West, there was manageable attrition. Now there are less restrictions to inhibit the spread of China's tentacles.