Russia is certainly about to lose some serious technical talent. I can't imagine any devs would want to stick around in that country. Hope Putin doesn't block all ways for them to emigrate.
I still hope this can be settled. If Ukraine gives up the areas that were basically constant civil war anyway... Continued escalation is to nobody's benefit. I don't think the Russian population wants this war either.
PS for what it's worth I also was really opposed to my own country helping the US to invade the middle East (eg Iraq, Afghanistan). But two wrongs don't make a right.
But basically the status quo is that these areas would be no good for Ukraine anymore because they're shot to crap and full or armed rebels (or green men). It's not like it's actually useful territory for building housing or running commercial activities etc. It's also pretty clear Russia would keep playing that game even if they retreat.
I would assume they'd gladly give up this territory (and Crimea) at this point for the war to stop. And then go full NATO or at least EU for future protection. I don't think Russia will ever give up the war without some kind of compromise because they would lose face.
Either way, I hope a consensus will be reached soon because this BS war is killing real people.
Energy independence is a great thing to have but not relevant if you have no country left :( I doubt Russia will give up without any kind of compromise. And the rest of the world can't make this into WW3 by intervening.
It would be great if you could kick Putin out altogether but he does have a lot more spare rersources. I just have a feeling that soon there will be nothing left to fight for :( Hope I'm wrong.