Russia clarifies Ukraine stance as Sergei Lavrov meets John Kerry in Paris.

[karynnj]

16. Using the analog with Syria, Lavrov's agreement committed Syria

There would have been no agreement if Russia could not insure that Syria agreed.

Here, it is trickier as the US/EU/Russia should not be acting to redesign the government of Ukraine - and like with the Syrian deal - without their agreement - even if it is grudging, there can be no agreement. You do remember that a few weeks ago, the demand was for Ukraine (backed by the US/EU) and Russia to negotiate this.

It does seem that some things could be agreed on without much trouble. For example, having Russian as a second official language - while controversial - is not different than Quebec province having both French and English as official languages. Only people far better versed on Ukraine's government than me could say what a potential compromise on the "federal" demand is. I don't know if this is similar to the US power of the States vs power of the US. If they already have "states", this could be easier than otherwise. As to precluding joining NATO, that is something the US/EU can state will not offered (possibly for some time period.)

The current Rada is the last elected Rada - This would be like saying the current Senate does not have the independence and integrity to make decisions. ( It is dysfunctional, but it does represent the country.)