The main events by the morning: May 22

• Estonia, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic and Sweden have proposed to the European Union to impose sanctions against Georgia because of the law on foreign agents. Possible measures include the freezing of funds for Georgia from EU funds, targeted sanctions and the suspension of the visa-free regime, which has been in effect for Georgian citizens since 2017.

• The Bank of Russia is considering the possibility of further rate increases. Alexey Zabotkin, Deputy Chairman of the Central Bank, reported on a scenario in which the Central Bank may raise the rate in June rather than reduce it. This scenario implies a further increase in labor market tensions, as well as continued or accelerated growth in consumer, investment and credit activity. Raising the rate is not the main plan, but the probability of this development should not be ruled out.

• Ireland and Norway recognized the statehood of Palestine. In response, Israel is recalling the ambassadors to Norway and Ireland for consultations. The Israeli authorities believe that recognition of Palestine will lead to an increase in terrorism, instability in the region and jeopardize the prospects for peace. 

• President Biden's rating has fallen to 36%, which is the lowest since June 2022. According to an Ipsos study, about 40% of respondents prefer Donald Trump's policies, believing that he understood the US economy better.

• Anthony Blinken said Iran had «benefited» from the death of President Ibrahim Raisi. According to Biden's adviser, given «the horrific acts in which he was involved as a judge and president, the Iranian people are probably better off.» Blinken also noted that Washington does not consider it necessary to declare a minute of silence at the UN in memory of Raisi.