I don’t think Putin has any interest in taking Kyiv. His demands have not changed since the war began.
I don’t see why this can’t be resolved with an out of war settlement.
We bought Louisiana from the French without a shot fired same with Alaska and the Russians. They sold because because they knew they could never really secure their territories.
Ukraine has no chance of ever getting their southern provinces back or of reclaiming Crimea. They are throwing good money and blood at a lost cause. AND its our money.
Ukraine should make a deal while they still can. Sell the territory to Russia. Doesn’t have to be cash since they are broke. Get low price guaranties for energy and other tangible benefits or whatever the Ukrainians think they need.
I believe Russia would jump at the chance just to improve their world image and end sanctions. Unfortunately the EU and the US would do all they can to block it. For some stupid reason they want a conflict with NATO and Russia.
When the sanctions fall from Russia watch their economy explode.