Moscow, 30 April (H.S.):
In a significant diplomatic exchange on Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a marathon over-90-minute phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kremlin spokesperson Yuri Ushakov confirmed during a media briefing. The discussion, initiated by Moscow, centered on de-escalating the ongoing U.S.-Iran war in the Middle East and addressing the protracted Ukraine conflict, now entering its fifth year since Russia's 2022 invasion.
Ushakov described the call as frank and businesslike, with both leaders devoting substantial attention to the volatile situation in Iran and the Persian Gulf. Putin commended Trump's recent extension of a ceasefire with Iran, viewing it as a pragmatic step that could foster negotiations and stabilize the region. However, he cautioned against any renewed U.S. or Israeli military actions, warning of inevitable and extremely damaging consequences not only for Iran and its neighbors but for global stability.
Russia pledged unwavering support for diplomatic resolutions amid reports of escalating tensions, including U.S. naval blockades in the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's alleged cyberattacks on American military personnel.
Shifting to Ukraine, Trump sought Putin's assessment of frontline developments, where Russian forces maintain the strategic upper hand, steadily advancing against Ukrainian positions. Both presidents aligned in their criticism of Kyiv's leadership under Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing it—backed by European allies—of deliberately extending the war.
Putin proposed a temporary ceasefire coinciding with Russia's Victory Day on May 9, honoring the Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II. Trump endorsed the idea enthusiastically, highlighting its symbolism as a shared historical victory, even as Moscow scales back its annual parade due to Ukrainian strike risks.
Since assuming office, Trump has navigated the Iran war—now costing the U.S. over $25 billion, per Pentagon estimates while balancing domestic pressures and international alliances. His refusal to lift the Hormuz blockade, coupled with vivid rhetoric likening Iran to a choking stuffed pig, signals a firm stance. Meanwhile, Putin's involvement reflects Russia's dual role: mediator in the Middle East and aggressor in Ukraine, where the conflict has displaced millions and razed infrastructure.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
