Zelensky said on Twitter that the conversation with Biden showed the “special nature” of the relationship between the two countries. According to Zelensky, he discussed with Biden the measures taken by Ukraine, the United States and its partners “to maintain peace in Europe so that there is no further escalation.” They also discussed reforms. “We appreciate Ukraine’s continued support.”

Both Biden and Zelensky in the conversation indicated support for diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation. The relationship between Russia on the one hand and Ukraine and the West on the other is under pressure. Russia has massed about 100,000 soldiers on the border with Ukraine.

A meeting is scheduled for January 10 between Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin. In the same week, NATO and Russia will meet and consultations are planned between the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and Russia. For years, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe monitored a ceasefire between pro-Russian separatists and the Ukrainian government army in Ukraine.

Biden did indeed have a phone conversation with Putin on Friday, in which he again warned that an invasion of Ukraine would not be without consequences. Putin, in turn, is said to have stressed that severe sanctions would lead to a split with the West.