Peoria Expert Breaks Down Russia-Ukraine War Stalemate

Four years on, no clear end in sight as both sides demand security guarantees

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Peoria-based expert on Russian history and global affairs, Angela Weck, weighs in on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, now in its fourth year. Despite multiple failed peace negotiations, the conflict remains at a stalemate, with Russia controlling around 19% of Ukrainian territory but unable to make significant further gains. Both sides are demanding security guarantees that the other is unwilling to provide, leading to a continued military standoff.

Why it matters

The Russia-Ukraine war has caused immense human suffering, with millions displaced and hundreds of thousands killed. The stalemate signals a protracted conflict with no clear end in sight, raising concerns about the long-term stability and security of the region.

The details

According to Weck, Russia had initially expected a quick takeover of Ukraine, but the invasion has turned into one of the longest land wars in Europe. While Russia controls about 19% of Ukrainian territory, Ukraine has pushed back many of the territorial gains Russia made in the first year of the war. Both sides are unwilling to make concessions without receiving security guarantees from the other, leading to the current impasse.

  • The Kremlin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
  • Four years have passed since the start of the war.

The players

Angela Weck

A Russian history expert and the executive director at the Peoria Area World Affairs Council.

Volodymyr Zelensky

The President of Ukraine, who has previously said he would never cede land to Russia.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Russia would like to control all the territory it controls and then some, and then it also wants to guarantee that Ukraine does not have any of the kinds of the security agreements that Ukraine is demanding in exchange.”

— Angela Weck, Russian history expert and executive director at the Peoria Area World Affairs Council (25newsnow.com)

“If the world, especially the United States, is not willing to offer those on the ground security deals, Ukraine understands that it has to keep fighting for its very existence.”

— Angela Weck, Russian history expert and executive director at the Peoria Area World Affairs Council (25newsnow.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.