Ukrainian and US negotiators discuss peace deal on Christmas Day

CNN’s framing treats Christmas Day diplomacy like a feel good vignette, as if a “very good” call is progress by itself. But the real story is what terms are being floated, who is making commitments, and whether Americans are being asked to underwrite them without clarity.

Conservatives aren’t allergic to talks. We’re wary of open ended promises that turn into permanent obligations. Any deal has to protect national security without becoming a blank check, and it must be anchored in clear objectives and public trust. If unofficial channels are involved, that only raises the stakes for transparency and accountability.

A durable settlement requires rule of law in how commitments are made, and institutional stability in how they’re enforced. The principle isn’t sentiment. It’s that American interests come first, and peace is only real when it’s verifiable.