Opinion: Putin’s clear preference in the 2022 vote

Contrast: some progressive Democrats in Congress asked for direct negotiations between the US and Putin, over Ukraine's head. This could only make a difference if it becomes a pathway to handing part of Ukraine or some Ukrainians to Putin.

Some Republicans in Congress (or running for it) simply don't care what happens to Ukraine, and are ready to let Putin have all or part of Ukraine

just to be done with it.

I think those Democrats' proposal is misguided, but I understand their wish to end the suffering caused by the war. I doubt that the Republicans care about that.