[nine_zeros]

There of course is a third way. Russian people toppling their own government, bringing an end to the command structure and thus the war.

Russians should take inspiration from Sri Lanka. They are on the streets everyday until the government is toppled.

[s1artibartfast]

This is just a route to get to number 2

[nine_zeros]

No. Number 2 is negotiated settlement between Russia and Ukraine. Number 3 is a toppled government leading to a fizzled war. No settlement.

[s1artibartfast]

How does a fizzled war end? A new government starts talking to Ukraine.

There is a lot that needs to be settled. Do troops stay in place? Does Crimea go back to Ukraine? Does Russia owe reparations?

[nine_zeros]

Often a fizzled war just dies abruptly. Some territories just separate away and declare independence. There is no settlement discussion.

See Bangladesh separation from Pakistan.