Left out of Alaska talks, exhausted Ukrainians fear an unjust peace

The ongoing international discussions regarding the conflict in Ukraine, particularly those involving major global powers, are a source of significant apprehension for many Ukrainians. There is a palpable sense of being sidelined from crucial negotiations that directly impact their nation’s future, leading to widespread concern that any potential resolution brokered without their direct involvement could result in an unfair or unsustainable peace. A prevailing sentiment among the populace is the deep-seated belief that, regardless of the outcomes of high-level diplomatic engagements, Russia’s fundamental objectives concerning the conflict remain unchanged, casting serious doubt on any immediate prospect of an end to hostilities. This pervasive skepticism about Russia’s willingness to genuinely de-escalate or cease military actions reinforces the conviction among Ukrainians that the conflict is far from over. The cumulative toll of prolonged warfare has led to immense societal exhaustion, yet this weariness is coupled with a steadfast determination that any lasting peace must be founded on principles of justice and national sovereignty, rather than externally imposed terms. The perceived exclusion from pivotal negotiations only heightens anxieties about a future where their territorial integrity and self-determination might be compromised in favor of broader geopolitical considerations, potentially leading to an outcome they would view as unjust.