In recent discussions regarding Iran, Russian President Vladimir Putin underscored the importance of resolving conflicts through political and diplomatic channels, according to his foreign affairs adviser, Yuri Ushakov. This statement came after the United States targeted three Iranian sites on June 22, becoming involved in Israel’s efforts to dismantle Tehran’s nuclear capabilities.
Meanwhile, concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Ushakov highlighted that during dialogues with former President Donald Trump, Putin expressed a desire for a swift ceasefire, while reiterating Russia’s commitment to achieving its objectives and addressing the underlying issues of the war. Putin contended that his military intervention in Ukraine, launched in February 2022, was intended as a defensive measure against Ukraine’s aspirations to join NATO and to safeguard Russian-speaking populations. He has made it clear that any potential peace agreement would require Ukraine to forgo its NATO ambitions and acknowledge Russia’s territorial claims.
This conversation coincided with news from the Pentagon regarding a temporary halt in shipments of certain military supplies to Ukraine as they reassess their stockpiles. Weapons affected by this pause include air defence systems and precision-guided artillery, although officials did not expand on the specifics. According to Ushakov, the suspension of U.S. military aid to Ukraine was not a topic discussed during Trump and Putin’s call.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated his intention to speak with Trump shortly regarding the weapon shipment delays, expressing uncertainty about the dialogue’s potential outcomes, noting their significant differences.
The recent communication between Trump and Putin follows a previous call on June 14, right after Israel’s strike on Iran. Their interaction reflects a mutual interest in restoring US-Russian relations, which have severely deteriorated amid the Ukrainian crisis, marking tensions reminiscent of the Cold War era.
Additionally, Putin recently engaged in a direct telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, marking their first discussion in nearly three years. This context highlights the shifting dynamics in international relations as leaders navigate complex geopolitical challenges.