Russian President Vladimir Putin held a 50-minute phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday, with their discussion largely centered on the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran. Putin called for efforts to de-escalate the hostilities and voiced strong criticism of Israel’s military actions.
According to Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov, Putin expressed serious concern over the potential for the conflict to spiral further, warning of unpredictable consequences for the broader Middle East.
Trump, posting on his Truth Social platform, confirmed the conversation focused mainly on the Middle East and added that he urged Putin to end Russia’s war in Ukraine.
“President Putin condemned Israel’s actions against Iran and stressed the dangers of escalation,” Ushakov told the media. He noted that Trump described the situation in the region as “very alarming,” but both leaders agreed that diplomatic negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program should not be ruled out.
Ushakov added that American negotiators remained open to future talks with Iran, with Oman continuing to act as mediator, although the next round of talks scheduled for Sunday had been canceled.
Putin reportedly reminded Trump of Russia’s previous proposals aimed at de-escalating the Iran situation and reaching a compromise on Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. “Russia’s position remains unchanged. We are committed to a peaceful resolution,” Ushakov said.
Trump, in his online statement, offered what was perhaps his most direct call yet for an end to the hostilities. “The call lasted about an hour,” he wrote. “He and I both agree: this war between Israel and Iran must end. I also told him that his war needs to end, too.”
The former U.S. president said the majority of their discussion revolved around the Middle East, with only brief attention given to Ukraine. However, he hinted that more detailed talks about the Ukraine conflict could happen next week.
On the Ukraine issue, Ushakov said Putin expressed Russia’s willingness to resume negotiations with Kyiv after June 22, as reported by RIA news agency.
The Kremlin noted that both leaders were pleased with their ongoing personal rapport, which allowed for open, solution-oriented dialogue on even the most difficult topics.
Putin also extended birthday wishes to Trump, who turned 79.
