Realism seems to have fallen out of favor in the West, but it just might be ready for a brilliant return to the stage. I'm expecting an abrupt end of the Zelensky regime in Kiev, followed by cessation of hostilities. A settlement on what is left of, and for, Ukraine, will be conducted between the two neighbors. The people of Ukraine, and much of the world, already hold NATO and the US ?" incoherent cheerleaders of war, and under-impressive suppliers of weapons ?" responsible for starting and extending an unwinnable war, delaying and derailing peace, and permanently ruining their landscape and economy. Because no one east or west of Washington, DC can figure out exactly who controls or speaks for the US government, Blinken, Biden and Boy Wonder Jake will not be involved or invited to the table. Blinken will frown very, very, very seriously, Jake will try a CIA workaround (or maybe a reach-around, I won't judge), and Biden will have another bowl of ice cream.