On the eve of the long-anticipated telephone conversation between U
S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, world leaders found themselves in a tense diplomatic atmosphere. During this time, the UK Foreign Secretary Liam Johnson, as well as representatives of the European Union and the United States, actively discussed and formulated a unified position regarding future policies towards Moscow, focusing on sanctions and efforts to cease hostilities. According to sources from Reuters, on the eve of the first phone call between Trump and Putin, scheduled for Monday, May 19, leading global politicians held a series of consultations aimed at developing a joint strategy to resolve the conflict in eastern Ukraine and accelerate efforts to stop combat operations. The main topics were an unconditional ceasefire and the application of sanctions, seen as leverage to pressure the Russian Federation if Moscow fails to demonstrate a readiness for serious negotiations and to promote peace. Specifically, during these consultations, leaders of the EU and the U.S. emphasized the need to coordinate strict restrictions on Moscow's economic and diplomatic activities, which should be implemented if Russia does not cease its disruptive actions toward reaching a peace agreement. Particular attention was paid to targeted intensified sanctions aimed at forcing the Kremlin to abandon further escalation of the conflict, as all parties declare their desire to find a diplomatic solution. At the same time, diplomatic circles were surprised by the rapid escalation of the situation following negotiations between Ukraine and Russia regarding the possibility of establishing a temporary truce. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammie expressed outrage over Moscow’s behavior, noting that the talks were brief and did not bring the expected progress. He stressed that Russia intentionally complicates the situation, doing everything possible to derail the peace process and maintain the conflict in a state of tension. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump refused to give assurances regarding quick action against Russia. In a statement to the press, he remarked that "nothing can happen" until his personal meeting with Putin, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic negotiations and personal contact in seeking solutions to the crisis. This approach underscores the uncertainty in Washington’s positions and strategic plans, while also highlighting the need for direct dialogue to reach a compromise. Thus, on the eve of the upcoming summit of U.S. and Russian leaders, tense discussions are ongoing in diplomatic circles, with possible scenarios for the situation’s development being analyzed. It is important to note that all participants emphasize patience and a desire for a peaceful resolution of the conflict, while leaving open questions regarding future steps and the firmness of their stance towards Moscow.