In the aftermath of yet another week of relentless Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian cities, a poignant image has circulated on Ukrainian social media. The composite photo juxtaposes a black-and-white image of Londoners during the Blitz with a contemporary shot of Kyiv residents shopping at a market, black smoke billowing in the background. The caption, ‘Bombs can’t stop markets,’ underscores the resilience of Ukrainians in the face of adversity. However, beneath this spirit of fortitude lies palpable fear and uncertainty. Halyna, a market vendor, expressed grim pessimism, stating, ‘This war hasn’t even started yet. It will get worse.’ The recent escalation in Russian attacks, targeting civilian infrastructure and causing significant casualties, has intensified the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent diplomatic efforts, including a challenging meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, have yielded little progress. Trump’s strategy, criticized as ‘weakness through appeasement,’ has further complicated the situation. Meanwhile, European leaders have pledged support for Ukraine, including sanctions and military aid. As the war enters a new phase, the question of whether to fight or negotiate with Russia remains central. The lessons of history, particularly the failures of appeasement, loom large as Ukraine continues to resist Russian aggression.