There's a strong possibility that the conflict could end before US elections. Given the current situation, it appears that Ukraine is struggling to defend both its eastern and northern fronts simultaneously. As a result, Russia may achieve a breakthrough in one of the ongoing offensives. Furthermore, Ukraine's rushed movements between fronts only exacerbate the situation. The challenge for Ukraine is that it cannot afford to lose Kharkov, which would be both a political and logistical disaster. However, due to widespread corruption, the area is defenseless. As a result, Ukraine is compelled to relocate its best troops from strategic locations like Chasov Yar to bolster its defenses. This may temporarily halt Russia's advance, but it could also result in the front line being split into two cauldrons, one in the north and one in the south, with communication between them severed. In such a scenario, Ukraine's situation would be dire, and the conflict could quickly reach its conclusion.