Russian Presidential Aide: Putin and Trump Discuss Middle East Situation and Ukraine Issue in Phone Call

Odaily According to reports on March 9 local time, Russian Presidential Aide Ushakov stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone call that day. Ushakov indicated that the call was initiated at the U.S. proposal, lasted approximately one hour, and was pragmatic, candid, and constructive. The focus of the conversation was the situation in the Middle East related to Iran and the negotiation process regarding the Ukraine issue. Regarding the Iran situation, both sides conducted specific and beneficial communication, with Putin urging a swift return to political and diplomatic channels to mediate the conflict. On the Ukraine issue, Putin stated that the Russian armed forces are making smooth progress in the special military operation, which should encourage the Ukrainian side to accelerate the mediation process. Trump reiterated his hope for a ceasefire among the conflicting parties as soon as possible and expressed the U.S. intention to engage in long-term mediation of the Ukraine issue. Ushakov also mentioned that the two presidents discussed related issues including the situation in Venezuela and expressed their willingness to maintain regular communication. (CCTV News)