Putin, Trump discuss Iran-Israel tensions, Ukraine over phone

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin held a 50-minute phone conversation with his US counterpart Donald Trump and the two leaders addressed escalating tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing war in Ukraine, according to Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov.

Ushakov said Putin condemned Israel’s military operation against Iran and expressed concern over its regional consequences.

Putin reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to act as a mediator between Israel and Iran, and that it was prepared to help resume talks on Iran’s nuclear program, Ushakov added.

The sixth round of indirect nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran has been called off, according to Oman's foreign minister.

The presidential aide said both leaders expressed satisfaction with what he described as their “positive personal relations,” suggesting a foundation for further direct communication.