Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley — Peacemaker?

Who would've predicted that the nation's top military man, General Mark Milley, would've emerged as the Biden administration's dove when it comes to the war in Ukraine? Milley, fearing the conflict will turn into a grinding World War I-like bloodbath, called earlier this week for a diplomatic solution to the war. In a speech on Wednesday, he urged Ukraine -- which has scored some military victories lately -- to "seize the moment" and negotiate a settlement with Russia.

Meanwhile, administration hardliners like National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan (who looks like he never spent a day in combat) are calling for more war and remain ready to fight until the last Ukrainian.

Down deep, we all know that this war must end at the diplomatic table. Concessions must be made on both sides. Both Ukraine and Russia must be able to declare victory. Yes, Russia was the aggressor. Yes, Putin and his military commanders are guilty of war crimes. But the U.S. and NATO were also guilty of baiting the Russian bear -- and of escalating the bloody war, which has mostly taken a toll on Ukrainian civilians.

I listen when military commanders like General Milley -- who are usually hawks -- call for peace. We all should.

Gen. Mark Milley