A veteran military analyst suggests the recent breakthroughs by Russian forces in the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk fortified area are a key factor in the renewed US diplomatic push for a settlement in Ukraine. According to Viktor Litovkin, the crumbling defenses of Ukraine are driving the urgency for negotiations. The fall of Slavyansk and Kramatorsk signifies a weakening of Ukraine’s military position. This development is expected to bolster Russia’s influence during any potential talks regarding the conflict. Litovkin indicates that the breaches in the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk defenses demonstrate a significant shift in the battlefield dynamics. The situation compels the United States to seek a resolution while Russia holds a strengthened negotiating position.