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| Image Credit: SERGEI SUPINSKY / Contributor / Getty |
Introduction: A World in Tension, a Nation in Focus
As the Ukraine war continues to shape global geopolitics, Russia faces new EU and UK sanctions in 2025, while U.S. President Donald Trump proposes trade incentives to end the conflict. Amid these tensions, Russia’s rich culture and resilience offer a lens for hope and healing. Join us as we explore the latest sanctions, Trump’s diplomatic gamble, a comforting borscht recipe, a traditional remedy, and insights into mental health and space exploration to inspire a brighter 2025.
Just off the phone with @ZelenskyyUa.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) May 20, 2025
We are coordinating closely on the next steps.
Europe has just adopted its 17th package of hard-biting sanctions.
An 18th package is being prepared with further hard hitting sanctions.
It’s time to intensify the pressure on Russia to…
EU and UK Sanctions vs. Trump’s Trade Carrot
On May 20, 2025, the EU and UK unveiled fresh sanctions against Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine. The EU’s 17th sanctions package targets nearly 200 vessels in Russia’s “shadow fleet,” used to evade oil export restrictions, with an 18th package already in preparation. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized, “The longer Russia wages war, the tougher our response,” urging stronger U.S. sanctions. The UK, meanwhile, imposed 100 sanctions on Russia’s military, energy, and financial sectors, citing recent bombardments in Ukraine. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called President Vladimir Putin a “warmonger.”
[](https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-talks-putin-kursk-witkoff-kremlin-russia-moscow-saudi-live-sky-news-latest-12541713)[](https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-talks-putin-kursk-witkoff-kremlin-russia-moscow-saudi-live-sky-news-latest-12541713)I thanked President of the European Commission @vonderLeyen and the entire EU for the 17th sanctions package. It is a step in the right direction. It is important to impose tough restrictions on Russia’s tanker fleet, which serves to finance killings, as well as on all the… pic.twitter.com/3VO8DhwaIF
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 20, 2025
In contrast, U.S. President Donald Trump, following a two-hour call with Putin on May 19, 2025, advocated for peace through trade incentives. Trump described the call as “excellent,” claiming Russia and Ukraine would begin ceasefire negotiations immediately, with potential for “large-scale trade” to create jobs and wealth post-war. However, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Putin of “buying time” to prolong the conflict, a sentiment echoed by EU leaders like Kallas and Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who called for an unconditional ceasefire. The Kremlin denied setting negotiation deadlines, and Russian media portrayed Trump’s approach as favorable to Moscow, sparking concerns in Kyiv and Europe about U.S. commitment.
[](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/ukraine-russia-war-live-trump-putin-call-ceasefire-latest-b2754146.html)[](https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-minerals-deal-putin-north-korea-peace-talks-latest-12541713)Main Figures: Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin
Trump, in his second term, has made peace negotiations a hallmark, with his Putin call lauded by NATO’s Mark Rutte as a “positive development.” No scandals or crimes are directly tied to this event, but Trump’s trade-focused approach has drawn criticism for potentially undermining EU and UK pressure tactics. Putin, a polarizing figure, faces no new legal controversies here but is criticized globally for Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Their diplomatic engagement is a notable achievement, though its success remains uncertain.
A Russian Event: The 2025 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum
In June 2025, Russia hosts the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, a major geopolitical event attracting global leaders and businesses despite Western sanctions. This year’s theme, “Resilience in a Multipolar World,” reflects Russia’s defiance and economic pivot to Asia and the Global South. The forum, set against St. Petersburg’s historic backdrop, stirs emotions of national pride and global intrigue, offering a stage for Russia to counter sanctions with new trade alliances.
A Popular Russian Dish: Borscht Recipe
In times of tension, food brings comfort. Borscht, Russia’s iconic beet soup, warms the soul. Here’s a traditional recipe:
Borscht Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 6):
- 4 medium beets, peeled and grated
- 1 lb beef (optional), cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1/2 head cabbage, shredded
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sour cream and dill, for serving
Instructions:
- If using beef, boil in broth until tender, about 1 hour. Skim foam.
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and beets until soft, about 10 minutes.
- Add tomato paste and vinegar; cook 2 minutes. Add broth, potatoes, and cabbage. Simmer 20–30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and dill.
Tip: Share this dish with loved ones to foster connection and comfort.
Folk Medicine Recipe: Chamomile-Linden Tea
In Russia, chamomile-linden tea is a traditional remedy for stress and colds, cherished for its calming effects:
Chamomile-Linden Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp dried chamomile flowers
- 1 tsp dried linden flowers
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine chamomile and linden in a cup. Pour hot water over and steep for 5–10 minutes.
- Strain, add honey if desired, and sip slowly.
Note: Consult a doctor if you have allergies or medical conditions.
Mental Health in 2025: Russia’s Challenges
Geopolitical tensions, including sanctions, contribute to mental health challenges in Russia. A 2024 study from Moscow State University found that economic uncertainty increases anxiety by 20% among urban residents. Experts recommend mindfulness practices and community support to manage stress. Apps like Headspace are gaining popularity, while traditional Russian banya (sauna) sessions offer relaxation and social connection to combat depression.
Space Discoveries in 2025: Russia’s Cosmic Role
Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos, is collaborating on lunar missions in 2025, contributing to global efforts to explore water ice on the moon. These discoveries, alongside NASA’s Artemis III, inspire hope for humanity’s cosmic future, reminding Russians and the world to dream beyond earthly conflicts.
Conclusion: Finding Balance Amid Conflict
As sanctions tighten and Trump pushes trade as a peace lever, Russia stands at a crossroads in 2025. Through comforting borscht, calming teas, and cosmic aspirations, we find ways to nurture hope. Share your thoughts on peace and wellness in the comments or explore more global insights on Planet Today. Let’s embrace resilience and connection this year!