Former French Ambassador to Moscow, Pierre Lévy, discusses the protracted conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing that genuine negotiations have not yet begun due to Russia's unchanged demands. He highlights a significant sequencing difference: Ukraine and Europe prioritize a ceasefire before discussing peace terms, while Russia insists on a comprehensive agreement first. Russia's preconditions include Ukrainian troop withdrawal from annexed regions, renunciation of NATO membership, demilitarization, "denazification" (implying Zelensky's departure), protection of Russian speakers' interests, and the lifting of sanctions. Lévy suggests that a resolution may only emerge when both sides recognize the war's escalating human, political, and material costs outweigh any potential gains, noting Russia's slow territorial progress and the ongoing attrition warfare. He also touches upon the complexities of international involvement, particularly the potential role of the US and European security guarantees for Ukraine.