Trump and Putin discuss Ukraine ceasefire and Middle East tensions in 90-minute call
ALBAWABA- U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a 90-minute phone call on Wednesday focused on the war in Ukraine, Iran, and rising tensions across the Middle East, with both leaders discussing possible steps toward de-escalation.
The Kremlin described the conversation as “friendly and businesslike,” saying the two presidents exchanged views on key international crises and explored options for reducing tensions.
According to Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov, Putin proposed a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine to coincide with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on 9 May, which marks the end of World War II in Europe.
Trump reportedly welcomed the idea, noting that the holiday symbolises a shared victory over Nazism and expressing optimism that a broader settlement to the Ukraine conflict could be within reach.
Ushakov said Trump believes a comprehensive agreement to end the war is “already close,” while Putin accused Ukraine of using what he described as “purely terrorist methods” in attacks on civilian targets.
On the Middle East, Putin raised proposals for addressing tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme and voiced support for Trump’s decision to extend a ceasefire with Iran, arguing that it would create room for diplomacy and contribute to regional stability.
The Russian president also warned of “extremely dire consequences” if the United States and Israel were to launch new military strikes in the region, saying such action could destabilise not only Iran and its neighbours but broader international security. Putin additionally condemned a recent assassination attempt targeting Trump and expressed personal support during the conversation.
The call came just two days after Putin hosted Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Moscow on 27 April. During that meeting, Putin reaffirmed support for Iran and praised the resilience of the Iranian people amid ongoing regional tensions, highlighting Russia’s continued efforts to maintain close strategic ties with Tehran.
The latest phone call reflects sustained high-level engagement between Washington and Moscow on major global flashpoints. While significant differences remain, both sides appear open to limited confidence-building measures, including symbolic ceasefires and diplomatic channels aimed at reducing escalation.
