Putin and Trump Discuss Middle East Tensions and Ukraine Conflict
In a rare direct conversation, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with former U.S. President Donald Trump for nearly an hour on Saturday, focusing primarily on the escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran. According to Kremlin officials, Putin strongly condemned Israel's recent military actions against Iran, stressing the danger of further escalation in the region.
Concerns Over Middle East Escalation
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov conveyed that Putin expressed deep worry about the unpredictable consequences that the conflict could trigger across the Middle East. Both leaders acknowledged the alarming nature of events unfolding in the area, although they also reaffirmed the potential for a diplomatic path forward.
"The Russian president condemned Israel's operation against Iran and highlighted risks that could spiral beyond control," Ushakov stated. Trump, for his part, described the situation as "very alarming" in his post on Truth Social.
Prospects for Renewed Talks on Iran’s Nuclear Program
Despite tensions, both sides left the door open to resuming negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions. U.S. negotiators had planned to meet Iranian representatives in Oman, acting as a mediator, but the latest round slated for Sunday was abruptly canceled.
Putin emphasized that Russia remains committed to facilitating mutually acceptable solutions, recalling earlier Russian proposals aimed at de-escalating the crisis through dialogue.
"Russia’s principled stance on peaceful resolution remains unchanged," Ushakov quoted Putin as saying.
Trump Calls for an End to Hostilities
Trump took a firmer stand in his remarks, urging an end to the Israel-Iran conflict while also calling for Russia to conclude its war in Ukraine. "He feels, as do I, this war in Israel-Iran should end," Trump stated, adding that he advocated for the cessation of hostilities in Ukraine as well.
Ukraine Talks and Bilateral Relations
While the bulk of the discussion centered on the Middle East, the conversation also touched on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Putin informed Trump that Russia is open to resuming peace negotiations with Ukraine after June 22.
Ushakov noted that both leaders expressed satisfaction with their personal rapport, which has facilitated pragmatic and business-like dialogues on complex bilateral and international issues.
Personal Touches
The call concluded on a cordial note, with Putin congratulating Trump on his 79th birthday.
In summary:
- Putin condemned Israeli strikes on Iran and warned of escalation risks.
- Trump advocated for ending the Israel-Iran conflict and the Ukraine war.
- Both leaders remain open to resuming Iran nuclear talks, with recent rounds canceled.
- Russia expressed readiness for renewed Ukraine peace negotiations after June 22.
- The dialogue reflected their ongoing, constructive bilateral relations.
