Putin proposes Victory Day truce in Ukraine, Trump backs idea

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump held a 90-minute phone call on Wednesday at Moscow’s initiative, discussing possible ceasefires in Ukraine and the risks of a ground offensive in Iran, according to a Kremlin aide.

Putin backs Trump’s Iran truce extension

Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov told reporters that Putin described Trump’s decision to extend the ceasefire with Iran as “correct,” saying it offers a chance for negotiations and regional stabilization. However, Putin warned that any US or Israeli “violent actions” — particularly a ground operation — would have “extremely harmful consequences” for Iran, its neighbors, and the international community. Ushakov said Russia is firmly committed to assisting diplomatic efforts and has proposed considerations aimed at resolving differences over Iran’s nuclear program.

Victory Day ceasefire proposed for Ukraine

On Ukraine, Trump emphasized the importance of an early end to hostilities and his willingness to help. “Donald Trump believes that a deal that would end the conflict in Ukraine is already close,” Ushakov said. At Trump’s request, Putin described the frontline situation and reiterated that military objectives will be achieved “in any case, though a negotiated outcome would be preferable.” Putin then proposed a ceasefire on May 9 — Russia’s Victory Day marking the end of World War II — and Trump endorsed the idea. “Vladimir Putin informed his American counterpart of his readiness to declare a truce for the period of Victory Day celebrations,” Ushakov added.

Economic ties and condemnation of violence

The leaders also discussed mutually beneficial energy and economic projects, noting that several large-scale initiatives are already being discussed between representatives of both states. They agreed to maintain personal contacts and through aides. Putin expressed sympathy with Trump over last week’s shooting at a Washington hotel during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, “strongly condemning the crime” and emphasizing the unacceptability of politically motivated violence.