VLADIMIR PUTIN is getting ready for an early Christmas. In the hope of a swift normalisation of relations with America, the Kremlin has been asking Russian firms which sanctions they would like Uncle Sam to lift first. America seems keen: last week Steve Witkoff, a White House envoy, said relief could come after a ceasefire is agreed in Ukraine. On March 25th Russia agreed to ensure safe passage in the Black Sea—if the West lifts sanctions on firms supposedly serving its agricultural industry (including a bank that has also helped finance Russian oil exports).