The Kremlin reports that Putin and Trump spoke over the phone on the Middle East crisis and Ukraine's peace efforts.
In a surprise diplomatic development, Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump spoke by phone to discuss the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the Kremlin announced on Friday.
According to a statement released by the Kremlin, the call was initiated by Trump and lasted more than 40 minutes. The two leaders reportedly focused on “ways to de-escalate the rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East,” which has drawn increasing global concern due to the risk of broader regional instability. Neither the White House nor Trump’s office has yet confirmed the call, but the Kremlin emphasized that the dialogue was "frank and constructive."
Middle East Focus
Putin reportedly briefed Trump on Russia’s position regarding recent Israeli military operations and Iran’s response, which Moscow has publicly described as “concerning for global peace.” Both leaders agreed, the Kremlin said, that diplomatic restraint was crucial and that continued hostilities could trigger “unpredictable consequences” for the global economy and energy markets.
With oil prices already surging and supply lines in flux, both Trump and Putin expressed interest in a "multi-party negotiation framework" that would involve key stakeholders, including Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. The Kremlin suggested Trump may be seeking to reassert a diplomatic role ahead of the U.S. presidential elections.
Ukraine Peace Discussion
The conversation also touched on the Ukraine war, now into its third year, with Putin reportedly stating that Russia remains open to negotiations “under new terms.” These terms, though not detailed publicly, are believed to be tied to recent territorial gains by Russian forces in eastern Ukraine and shifting dynamics within European politics.
Trump, long known for his controversial stance on NATO and previous criticism of U.S. aid to Ukraine, was said to have “explored possibilities” for future peace summits, according to the Russian readout. Analysts note that Trump has recently spoken out on the campaign trail about the need to “end the war in 24 hours,” a claim often questioned by foreign policy experts.
No Confirmation From U.S. Officials
While the Kremlin provided a detailed summary, there has been no immediate confirmation from U.S. officials or Trump’s campaign. If verified, the call could mark Trump’s most direct foreign engagement since announcing his 2024 presidential campaign and would raise fresh questions about his unofficial role in foreign policy.
The Biden administration has not commented but has previously warned against private citizens engaging in sensitive international negotiations without governmental oversight.
Global Reactions and Political Implications
The call is already drawing sharp responses across the international political spectrum. Ukrainian officials expressed skepticism, with one senior aide to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stating that “Putin’s peace language is always coded,” and warning against any negotiation not including Ukraine as an equal party.
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the call reflected “mutual understanding between the two leaders on the seriousness of global challenges,” and suggested further communication could follow if the political will exists.
If confirmed, this Putin–Trump interaction would be among the most significant unofficial foreign policy conversations involving a former U.S. president in recent memory.
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