On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a significant 50-minute phone call, primarily focusing on the escalating tensions in the Middle East and ongoing peace talks concerning Ukraine. This conversation was characterized by an exchange of viewpoints on various critical international issues, as noted by Putin's foreign affairs adviser, Yuri Ushakov.
During their discussion, Putin informed Trump about his recent communications with leaders from Iran and Israel. He reiterated Russia's desire to find mutually acceptable solutions related to the Iranian nuclear issue, highlighting the importance of diplomatic approaches in mitigating conflict. Ushakov conveyed that the "dangerous escalation of the situation in the Middle East" was a focal point of their exchange, emphasizing the urgency surrounding the matter.
Putin condemned any military operations directed against Iran, expressing deep concern regarding the potential for further escalation of conflicts in the region. Ushakov reported that Putin highlighted the risks of "unpredictable consequences" stemming from the current tensions, suggesting that the situation could rapidly deteriorate if not addressed. Furthermore, he affirmed Russia's willingness to mediate, advocating for constructive steps toward resolution during U.S.-Iran negotiations regarding the nuclear program.
Describing the regional scenario as "very alarming," Trump acknowledged the effectiveness of Israel's military strikes on Iranian targets. The leaders also entertained the possibility of resuming negotiations related to the Iranian nuclear program, signaling an openness to dialogue despite prevailing tensions.
In addition to Middle Eastern affairs, the conversation touched on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Ushakov shared that Putin updated Trump about the ongoing peace talks taking place in Istanbul, which included discussions surrounding the exchange of prisoners of war. He indicated that the exchange involves seriously wounded individuals and prisoners below the age of 25, demonstrating a humanitarian aspect to the negotiations.
Trump expressed his interest in a rapid conclusion to the hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, underscoring the urgency for resolution from the U.S. perspective. The exchange of views between the two leaders reflects their mutual recognition of the complexities involved in both the Middle Eastern situation and the Ukraine crisis.
As the call concluded, Putin offered birthday congratulations to Trump, celebrating his 79th birthday. This personal gesture underlined the ongoing diplomatic relationship between the two leaders amidst geopolitical challenges.
