Ukraine can’t win, so it’s time for realpolitik

John F Kennedy said: “Nuclear Powers must avert those confrontations which bring an adversary to a choice of either a humiliating retreat or a nuclear war.”

Appeasement has been a dirty word since 1938, but if we are to avert World War III, the time has come for realpolitik. It is difficult to ask Ukraine to make concessions after witnessing scenes of genocide, but the reality is that Ukraine cannot win the war against superior Russian forces.

It is evident that President Putin has badly miscalculated not least because 21st century drones can destroy 20th century tanks, but how will he react to the huge unexpected losses? While the tabloids, irresponsibly, speculate Putin will declare the Third World War on 9 May, experts do think Russia will fully mobilise and extend conscription. He boasts that Russia has got the sarmat nuclear weapon with multiple warheads and claims they have developed frightening hypersonic weapons. Certainly Russia does have thermobaric bunker-busting weapons like the ones the USA used in Afghanistan.

Against that background, it is inappropriate for Liz Truss and Ben Wallace to make wild remarks about returning Ukraine to its 2014 status (Scotsman, 29 April). Equally irrelevant were Anthony Blinken and Lloyd Austin in the United States openly saying they want Russia's military capability to be reduced. To say sanctions should remain after the war ends is ridiculous and hardly an incentive.

Reports elsewhere suggest that Russia is amenable now to concessions at the Antalya peace talks. In a fortnight the people of Donetsk and Luhansk will vote to join Russia. Were that to be accepted and, provided Ukraine does not join the EU or Nato; there is a prospect of peace. The alternative is an endless war of attrition with more modern military supplies going from Nato to Ukraine.

JOHN V LLOYD Inverkeithing, Fife