Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump held an extended phone conversation lasting over 90 minutes, which the Kremlin described as “friendly and businesslike.” The discussion covered several major global developments, including the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the war in Ukraine, and a recent shooting incident at a high-profile event in Washington.
According to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, Putin strongly condemned the attempted attack that took place during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner and expressed support for Trump in the aftermath of the incident. The attack, which occurred at a major public gathering attended by political leaders and journalists, prompted heightened security concerns.
During the call, the two leaders also discussed developments related to the Iran conflict. Putin reportedly voiced support for Trump’s decision to extend a ceasefire arrangement, while both sides exchanged views on Tehran’s nuclear programme and broader regional stability. Ushakov noted that Putin presented specific proposals regarding Iran, indicating Russia’s continued involvement in diplomatic efforts around the crisis.
On the issue of Ukraine, Trump is said to have conveyed optimism about the possibility of reaching a negotiated settlement, suggesting that a resolution could be approaching. Putin, however, reiterated Moscow’s position, accusing Ukraine of employing what he described as “terrorist methods.” He also proposed a temporary ceasefire during the upcoming Victory Day commemorations in May, an idea that Trump reportedly responded to in a positive manner.
Beyond conflict-related discussions, the conversation also touched on prospects for future cooperation between Russia and the United States, particularly in the areas of energy and economic engagement. This indicates an effort by both sides to maintain communication channels despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The call came shortly after a serious security breach at the Washington-based event, where authorities said a suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, attempted to storm the venue while armed with firearms and knives. The situation escalated rapidly, with security personnel engaging as the suspect tried to force his way inside. Trump was quickly escorted away from the stage, and attendees sought cover as the incident unfolded. The suspect was later detained and now faces multiple federal charges.
Investigators revealed that Allen had travelled across several states before arriving in Washington and had managed to check into the hotel hosting the event, raising concerns about lapses in security procedures at what is typically a tightly controlled gathering.
The broader Iran conflict, which formed a central part of the leaders’ discussion, began on February 28 when coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel targeted Iranian leadership and military infrastructure, reportedly resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei along with senior commanders. Iran’s retaliatory actions expanded the conflict, drawing in the wider Gulf region.
Since then, weeks of sustained military operations by US and Israeli forces have targeted numerous industrial and strategic sites within Iran, causing extensive economic disruption. Reports indicate significant damage to manufacturing capacity, rising inflation, and concerns over widespread job losses.
Trump’s recent decision to extend a ceasefire—initially set for two weeks—indefinitely has provided Iran additional time to formulate a comprehensive proposal aimed at ending hostilities. This extension was announced just hours before the existing truce was due to expire. However, earlier diplomatic efforts, including talks held in Islamabad in April, failed to produce a breakthrough, leaving the conflict unresolved despite ongoing negotiations.
