Your predictions are more clear-headed than mine--though I understand you're not predicting anything more than I am!

The resistance I see isn't in Donbas. That is what it is and has been since 2014. The resistance I see will take the form of terrorism. Putin is a very stupid man these days, IMHO. He doesn't think ahead to what happens if Ukraine becomes a failed State. Terrorism will leach into Moscow from all sides. It will increase for China too which won't be good for Russia either.

There are thousands of fighters who will never accept any deal that involves the loss of significant territory.

War goes in cycles. The Russian are doing well today. In the weeks ahead I will predict something--Ukraine will make another "statement" like Markova.

Or not ;) Thanks for comment!