Recently, a tough statement by Donald Trump caught the Russians off guard. According to Western media, the main trigger was Russia's reluctance to make concessions in ongoing negotiations, which angered Trump. Following a key conversation, he decided to take decisive action. The Russian Foreign Ministry is trying to appear calm but officially calls for talks to delay further sanctions. Meanwhile, sources say China is refusing to buy Russian oil, leading to a significant drop in Russia's revenues. Previously, China bought about 1.4 million barrels of Russian oil daily via sea routes, but these numbers are now falling.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss prospects for ending the war and increasing support for Ukraine. Defense cooperation, weapons supplies, and strengthening air defense systems were key discussion points. EU country leaders, including the Belgian and Finnish prime ministers, signaled readiness to provide Ukraine with financial aid and even cruise missiles.
Russia’s response includes threats of retaliation over asset confiscations, yet, according to European diplomats, a decision on financial aid to Ukraine could come soon. Ukraine and its international partners are analyzing the effectiveness of new sanctions against the Russian economy and considering further tightening. For Ukraine, increased sanctions and security cooperation are crucial to resisting Russian aggression and restoring peace.
The situation is generally seen as positive for Ukrainian interests. The West continues to support Ukraine financially and militarily, which could bring an end to active conflict and further weaken the Russian economy.
