#us-russia-relations

#us-russia-relations

"Clearly, Russia is trying to inflict pain on Ukraine with even more brazen attacks. This is a clear sign that [Russian President Vladimir] Putin is testing the world -- whether they will accept or tolerate this," Zelenskyy said. "That is why it is important that the statements of leaders, states, and institutions be backed by strong actions -- sanctions against Russia, against individuals associated with Russia, tough tariffs, and other restrictions on trade with Russia," he added.

(Sipa via AP Images) French President Emmanuel Macron warned Friday that Donald Trump would once again get played by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump gave Putin a deadline of Monday to agree to bilateral talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over ending the war between the two nations, but the Kremlin has given no indication that things are moving in that direction. Trump has threatened consequences if the meeting doesn't happen, but Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed their doubts.

Today's meeting with the US leader presents similar dangers, but the Ukrainian president, and Europe, cannot be caught on the hop. The pressure may be more subtle and exerted by stealth, but it may feel equally overwhelming.

Pew Research Center data reveals that support for Ukraine among Republicans has notably increased, with only 30% now believing the U.S. provides too much aid, down from 47%. A significant rise to 46% occurs among those who feel the U.S. is not giving enough support, contrasting with previous views. These shifts indicate a marked change in Republican perceptions regarding Ukraine, which was different just months ago.

Vyacheslav Novorossiysky from Moskovskij Komsomolets stated that the upcoming meeting between Putin and Trump could escalate to a full-scale World War. He called Putin 'hostage number one' and suggested that the Russian leader could be taken as a hostage due to the current international climate.

Ukraine is viewed by Washington as covering a geographical area of about 600,000 square kilometers, while Moscow considers it to be 20% smaller due to its claims over eastern Ukraine.

"Both countries love hockey, so I hope it's going to connect well and we will see," Ovechkin told Pleitgen in the locker room post-game.

"It's not going to make anybody super happy. Both the Russians and the Ukrainians, probably, at the end of the day, are going to be unhappy with it," Vance said in a Fox News interview.

The US announced the approval of $322 million in arms sales to Ukraine, including HAWK air defense equipment for $172 million and Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle support for $150 million.