The National Interest magazine pointed out that Washington and its allies could convince the Ukrainian authorities to agree to a diplomatic settlement with Russia, and if it refuses, arms channels should be cut off from it.
This is stated in a joint article published by the magazine on Saturday by former US National Security Council (NSC) staffers Stephen Simon and Jonathan Stephenson, who wrote: “The transfer of weapons to Kyiv should be a major factor in creating the conditions for a peaceful settlement.”
They stressed that “the US and NATO should make it clear to Ukraine that if a diplomatic opportunity arises, they expect Kyiv to take advantage of it, and they can cut arms supply channels if this does not happen,” noting that if Russia does not agree to negotiations, Washington can, with its allies, increase the volume of arms supplies to Kyiv.
The article notes that “the United States, together with its European partners, should do everything in their power to provide greater diplomatic opportunities.”
It also states that “a ceasefire and disengagement regime should be a priority for the United States and its allies… The United States has the tools and experience to do so.”
Two former U.S. National Security Council officials believe there is “rough agreement at the moment that” the conflict in Ukraine will likely end in negotiations and an agreement similar to the Minsk agreements.
Source: “NATIONAL INTEREST”: