I think the people in the back rooms of power now know that Russia is incapable of mounting against any serious conventional attack on NATO members. Finland is safe, regardless of whether it is a NATO member or not. We could not have said that three years ago.

Of course, there is the nuclear threat. But what is the state of Russia's nuclear arsenal?

Then there is the cyber and propaganda warfare. Russia seems pretty capable on that front.

And then there are missiles and drones, which have vaulted us into 21st century warfare. Cheap to produce. Does not expose soldiers. If a ceasefire is called, Russia can loft this arsenal on Ukrainian cities (or other cities in Europe) at their pleasure.

Russia can end the slaughter by leaving Ukraine. Giving it what it wants only prolongs the agony.