During a recent phone conversation, Russian President Vladimir Putin informed former U.S. President Donald Trump that Moscow would respond to the latest Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian airfields. Trump revealed the details of the call on social media, saying that Putin was emphatic about the need to act following the attacks on Russia’s docked aircraft and other incidents.
Describing the conversation as “good but not one that will lead to immediate peace,” Trump noted that both sides acknowledged the ongoing escalation. Earlier that day, Moscow warned that military options were under consideration and blamed Western nations for enabling Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory.
Russia also urged the United States and the United Kingdom to rein in Kyiv, following weekend drone strikes on nuclear-capable bombers. While Ukrainian officials celebrated the attacks as evidence of their continued resistance, both Washington and London denied prior knowledge of the operations.
Beyond Ukraine, the two leaders discussed Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Trump stated that he and Putin agreed that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon. He added that Tehran appeared to be stalling its decision on U.S.-led nuclear negotiations and urged for a swift response.
Putin reportedly expressed willingness to participate in future discussions to help accelerate a resolution. The Kremlin confirmed Putin had communicated a similar message to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, offering Moscow’s support in advancing nuclear talks.
However, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected the latest U.S. proposal, asserting it conflicted with Iran’s national interests, particularly regarding uranium enrichment.
While Trump has often faced criticism for appearing too accommodating toward Russia, the call hinted at potential collaboration between Washington and Moscow on the Iran issue — even as the Ukraine conflict continues to strain global relations.
