President Donald Trump has disclosed that he rebuffed an offer from Russian President Vladimir Putin to assist in resolving the conflict with Iran, while pressing the Kremlin to accept a ceasefire in Ukraine. The two leaders held a private telephone conversation on Wednesday, during which they discussed linking the end of hostilities in Iran to Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.
Trump's Account of the Call
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump stated: "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.'" The President described the remainder of the discussion as "very good" and revealed that he suggested Putin consider "a little bit of a ceasefire" with Ukraine.
Putin's Response
According to reports, Putin praised Trump's decision to extend the ceasefire with Iran, which has allowed for further diplomatic discussions. The Kremlin later claimed that Putin offered a temporary truce with Ukraine to coincide with the annual celebration of the World War II victory over Nazi Germany on May 9. A Russian spokesperson characterized the call as "friendly, frank and businesslike," noting it lasted more than an hour and a half.
Iran Nuclear Stalemate
Trump reportedly rejected Putin's proposal to house Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, instead demanding that Tehran hand over the material directly to the United States. This sticking point has stalled peace talks. Tehran is demanding the end of all US economic sanctions and full control over taxing oil tankers moving through the Strait of Hormuz.
US Naval Blockade
The President's four-week extension of the ceasefire with Iran has coincided with a US naval blockade aimed at forcing the regime back to the negotiating table. During a meeting in the Situation Room on Monday, Trump favored continuing the blockade over either resuming strikes or withdrawing entirely, according to the Wall Street Journal. Officials indicated that the President believes the economic blockade represents the least risky option, and it has decimated the Iranian economy, preventing it from properly storing oil.
White House Statement
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said in a statement: "The president will only accept a deal that protects the national security of our country." She added that Operation Epic Fury has met all of Trump's military objectives and that "thanks to the successful blockade of Iranian ports, the United States has maximum leverage over the regime."
Ukraine Conflict
During the 2024 campaign, Trump promised to end the Ukraine war in 24 hours; it has now been 15 months. His relationship with Putin has devolved into public scolding and collapsed summits, with every ceasefire attempt unraveling and no deal in sight. Trump has stopped short of strikes since an April 7 ceasefire was reached, though gas prices remain high and his poll numbers continue to decline. Peace talks have yet to produce a deal, and planned discussions with Vice President JD Vance were canceled.
