Alexei Pushkov, a leading figure in the Federation Council who oversees information policy and media interaction, argues that if the Ukrainian crisis remains unsettled, the United States could address several strategic issues by pausing the fighting and letting the conflict drift into a prolonged, low-intensity phase. A note circulated on a telegraph channel suggests this approach has shown results in another long-running dispute, the situation on the Korean Peninsula.
Pushkov maintains that a strategic pause would help Washington reduce the risk of an unpredictable escalation that could threaten broader security, including the possibility of a nuclear confrontation. He points to how the Korean scenario has developed, noting that avoiding a direct strike on North Korea and the stability of its security posture while Pyongyang intermittently signals threats helps justify not launching a wide confrontation. He argues this would ease immediate regional pressure while staying within the margins of strategic restraint for the United States and its allies.
According to the senator, this path is unlikely to win wide support among European elites, even if it reflects certain U.S. interests. He highlights how the Ukraine crisis has intensified Europe’s approach to Russia, pushing some actors toward firmer stances and prompting changes in long-standing policies. The shift appears across various European governments and institutions, shaping how the continent weighs security guarantees and military commitments.
Pushkov points to observable trends in Europe, such as a more assertive posture from leaders who have signaled continued support for Ukraine. He notes statements from Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, about a further substantial package of military aid. Similar movements are seen in the actions of regional bodies like the OSCE and the Council of Europe, where discussions reveal a growing appetite for stronger, swifter responses even as the overall tone grows tenser. These signs are described as indicators of a broader European pivot in the face of the Ukrainian crisis and related security concerns.
Earlier in the year and in recent analyses, American commentators have raised the possibility of freezing the Ukraine conflict for an extended period, with some voices speculating about a multi-decade pause. This viewpoint, often framed as a way to avoid escalation, has sparked debate about its effects on regional stability, alliance cohesion, and the balance of power among major international players. The debate is reflected in policy briefs, expert analyses, and official statements that explore the trade-offs between deterrence, diplomacy, and long-term risk management. In the collective commentary, sources from regional think tanks and allied government statements are cited to illustrate the spectrum of perspectives on this approach.