kathmandu, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump held a 55-minute telephone conversation , discussing bilateral relations, the war in Ukraine, and other international issues.
During the call, Trump reiterated his call for an end to hostilities in Ukraine and expressed readiness to influence Kyiv and Washington’s European partners. Putin responded that Ukrainian strikes on Russian civilian infrastructure would not alter the situation on the battlefield.
Putin also told Trump that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy should come to Moscow if he seeks a direct meeting. The two leaders reportedly agreed that U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner would soon return to Russia for further discussions.
The conversation also touched on humanitarian issues. Putin noted that Zelenskyy should not forget the tragedy of the Holocaust and praised Melania Trump for her role in helping reunite Russian and Ukrainian children with their families.
Putin and Trump further discussed the anticipated U.S.-Iran memorandum. Trump informed Putin that a U.S.-Iran agreement was close and could be announced soon. Putin welcomed efforts to contain tensions, saying a conflict between the United States and Iran could have destabilized the entire region.
The Russian leader also congratulated Trump on his 80th birthday. Trump thanked Putin and reportedly noted that the Russian president was the first foreign leader to call him that day. Putin’s congratulations were described as informal and reflective of his respect for Trump’s “fighting qualities.” No gifts were exchanged during the occasion.
Putin also wished Trump success in hosting the upcoming FIFA World Cup, citing Russia’s experience in successfully organizing the 2018 tournament.
