In Germany, they learned about Merz's intention to talk with Trump before calling Putin

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to make a call to US President Donald Trump to talk with him again before the American leader calls Russian President Vladimir Putin. This was reported on May 18 by the German newspaper Bild.

"We have agreed that in preparation for this dialogue, we will talk again — the four heads of state and government — with the president of the United States," the newspaper quoted him as saying on the sidelines of the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV in Rome.

Merz added that at present, one can only hope that further progress will now be made in the situation in Ukraine. The politician clarified that he had already talked with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the telephone conversations between Trump and Putin, which were announced by the head of the White House.

"We suggest that the Kiev authorities resume negotiations"

Vladimir Putin announced Russia's readiness to start a direct dialogue with Ukraine on May 15.

Earlier on May 18, Special Envoy of the President of the United States Stephen Witkoff expressed hope that the telephone conversation between the American leader and Putin scheduled for Monday, May 19, would be successful.

As Daniel Davis, a retired American army colonel, suggested on May 17, Putin and his American counterpart Trump may agree on a deal that is unfavorable for Ukraine during an upcoming telephone conversation. He noted that on May 19, when a telephone conversation between the heads of state will take place, it can become a truly "big day."

Trump announced his intention to hold a telephone conversation with Putin on May 19 on the same day. The American leader clarified that the topics of the conversation would be the settlement of the conflict in Ukraine and trade issues. After that, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the possible date and place of the meeting between the president and the American leader are currently being determined. He added that Trump wants a meeting as soon as possible.