Should Ukraine negotiate a ceasefire with Russia even without a democratic mandate from its people?

Context

Ukraine faces pressure to negotiate a ceasefire with Russia, but the question of whether President Zelenskyy should pursue talks without a popular referendum raises fundamental issues about democratic legitimacy and wartime decision-making. A ceasefire could halt bloodshed and destruction, but critics worry it might entrench Russian territorial gains and undermine Ukraine's negotiating position. The debate intensifies as military momentum shifts and international actors—particularly the U.S.—push for diplomatic solutions.