Trump says he pushed Putin on Ukraine truce over Iran enrichment role
US president tells Russian leader he prefers Kremlin focus on ending Ukraine war rather than helping with Tehran’s nuclear program after ‘very good’ call.
US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that he discussed a potential ceasefire in Ukraine with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a lengthy phone call, while steering Moscow away from involvement in addressing Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Trump prefers Putin focus on Ukraine
Describing the conversation as “very good,” Trump said he suggested that Russia and Ukraine enter a renewed truce. He added that Putin “might announce something having to do with” a ceasefire, without elaborating. The US president then revealed that Putin had expressed interest in helping with Iran’s uranium enrichment efforts. “He told me he'd like to be involved with the enrichment, if he can help us get it. I said, 'I'd much rather have you be involved with ending the war with Ukraine,'” Trump said. “To me, that would be more important.”
Kremlin confirms call, warns against Iran ground operation
The Kremlin confirmed the leaders spoke for over 90 minutes at Russia’s request. Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov told reporters that Putin called Trump’s decision to extend the ceasefire with Iran “correct,” saying it provides room for further negotiations. However, Ushakov warned that a US-Israeli ground operation in Iran would be “completely unacceptable and dangerous,” citing harmful consequences for Tehran, its neighbors, and the international community. On Ukraine, Ushakov said Trump believes a deal to end the conflict is “already close.”
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Ceasefire and nuclear stakes
The US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, prompting Tehran’s retaliation and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A Pakistani-mediated ceasefire was announced on April 8, followed by inconclusive talks. Trump later extended the truce at Pakistan’s request.
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