Day 1,182 of the Russia-Ukraine war: Developments as of May 21

Wednesday 21 May 2025 - 08:31

By: Zahouani Ilham

Day 1,182 of the Russia-Ukraine war: Developments as of May 21

U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed concerns over a potential Russian troop buildup near Finland’s border, stating he believes Finland and Norway remain secure. Meanwhile, Moscow criticized NATO’s actions as provocative after Estonia’s failed attempt to seize a Russian oil tanker suspected of violating international sanctions.

Diplomatic Developments

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced that Pope Leo XIV and the Vatican are prepared to mediate peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to propose a peace plan soon. According to Rubio, the proposal may include general terms to initiate a ceasefire and allow for deeper negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, however, accused Russia of using peace talks as a strategy to prolong its military campaign and maintain its occupation. In related news, Polish authorities indicted an individual for allegedly collaborating with Russian intelligence in a suspected plot to assassinate Zelenskyy.

Economic Measures

The United Kingdom imposed sanctions on 100 additional Russian entities, aiming to weaken the logistics and funding of Putin’s military operations. The European Union also revealed its 18th sanctions package targeting Russia. Canada extended an invitation to Ukrainian Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko to attend a G7 finance ministers’ meeting in Banff, Alberta. During the event, Marchenko urged for stronger sanctions, particularly a reduction of the price ceiling on Russian crude oil exports. This meeting sets the stage for a broader G7 summit in June, also hosted by Canada, where Ukraine’s postwar reconstruction will be on the agenda.