Source: The Bulwark
by Mark Hertling
“There’s always someone in Washington or Brussels who believes Putin might hold to a deal; that if he receives the right offer or ‘off ramp’ or the right concessions, or if he hears the right words, he might be accommodated and agree to a responsible peace. This is a dangerous illusion. Putin has shown the world again and again that his word is worthless. He breaks treaties, violates borders, murders opponents, and weaponizes everything from cyberspace to natural gas. To trust him in any negotiation is to play poker with a man who cheats even when he’s winning. To those who have dealt with him, his government, or even his lower-ranking military commanders, this is obvious.” (08/21/25)