Two facts seem pertinent to me.

1. Russia didn't have to invade Ukraine.

2. If Russia withdrew its armed forces from Ukraine the war would end.

Somewhere, deep down, Putin realises he has bitten off more than he can chew.
So he is on a new tack.
So he is trying to achieve his goal by feigning a peaceful approach.
His idea of peaceful negotiation is to have 'given' to him most of what he wants?
The 'West' is expected to ignore the grossly unjust destruction he has inflicted on the Ukraine.

One might think Putin is safe and well, and in control of his affairs.
One might also think the people around him are in total agreement with his goals.
But it has become clear that this is not the case.
There is a groundswell of local opinion which does not favour him?
And he must know that this is a slow working but very powerful force.

One thing which is to be commended is that the Ukraine is fighting its own battle.
Albeit, with a little help from its friends.
I am glad to see there is not a major direct intervention by other countries.
The help given to the Ukraine will allow it to succeed on its own.
Which is as it should be.

This applies to other places which experience a major problem too.
Advice, and help with immediate needs, should be given freely when setbacks are suffered.
But only when there is a major natural disaster should anyone intrude in to another country.
And only when invited to do so.
So the approach of the west towards the Ukraine is, so far, right on target?

Dear David and IF,

I agree with you both.

I think most of us are aware of the facts.
There's enough news sources, journalists
and photographers, and political commentators
in Russia who are presenting us with what's
going on including organisations like Amnesty
International, Red Cross, and others so we don't
have to buy into the Putin propaganda. We can
sift out what's true and what isn't. The
evidence is available.

EU Trade with Russia surges
http://youtu.be/gCtLPPLsQTs?t=841

Imagine if we were sending money and weapons and military to kill chinese people, but then, like talking out of both sides of our mouths we were completely reliant on chinese goods, like food, energy and fertilizer?

That's how stupid this whole thing is...

We would not invade China and then demand negotiations
only on our terms.

Yes the whole Russian thing is stupid.
Russia could end the war tomorrow.