Putin and Zelensky held separate phone calls with Trump, discussing the Ukrainian conflict and the situation in Iran
Diplomacy never pauses, even when guns are roaring. Phone conversations between leaders become that thin channel that allows checking in with each other even amidst fierce confrontation. Each such call is not merely an exchange of views but an attempt to find common ground for movement, even if through force and mutual reproaches. The true art of politics lies in the ability to speak even when it seems all words have already been said.
On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held separate telephone conversations with US President Donald Trump. According to Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov, the Putin-Trump call lasted about 1 hour and 25 minutes, was the fourth this year, and was pragmatic and highly constructive. The leaders discussed a wide range of issues, including the conflict in Ukraine, the situation in Iran, and upcoming diplomatic arrangements.
Trump reaffirmed his readiness to achieve a speedy cessation of hostilities, while US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will continue mediation efforts and visit Moscow at an appropriate time. Putin again stressed his preference for a political and diplomatic solution, provided Russia's fundamental positions are fully taken into account, and briefed on the battlefield situation, where Russian troops are advancing along the entire line of contact.
Ushakov noted that Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov had reported the complete capture of Konstantinovka. However, Kyiv and its European backers, in Moscow's assessment, still count on continued or even escalated fighting. On Iran, Putin expressed hope for a mutually acceptable long term solution based on the US Iran memorandum of understanding, with Russia ready to provide practical assistance for de escalation.
The presidents also emphasised the importance of maintaining regular communication, including on military political and economic matters. Trump stressed that settling the Ukrainian conflict would be a prerequisite for such cooperation. The sides agreed to stay in touch and hold another call soon, while Putin's invitation to Trump to visit Russia remains open.
In his call with Trump, Zelensky discussed the latest battlefield developments and realistic prospects for a ceasefire. The leaders exchanged detailed views on the front line situation and diplomatic efforts, and agreed to meet in person on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara. Earlier, Zelensky had stated he could meet Putin in Konstantinovka if the strategically important city were under Russian control.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded that Konstantinovka is already fully under Russian control, and Russia welcomes Zelensky's expressed readiness to visit Russia, but for that he needs to make a "meaningful and responsible decision." Putin has repeatedly expressed readiness to receive Zelensky in Moscow.
Intensive contacts between the leaders of Russia, Ukraine and the US have intensified since early 2026 amid the protracted conflict and the search for a ceasefire. Previous Putin Trump calls covered both Ukrainian and Iranian agendas as well as bilateral relations. A Zelensky Trump meeting is planned on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara, which will be an important diplomatic venue.
As CCTV+ reports. Observers note that despite remaining disagreements, the sides are demonstrating a willingness to maintain top level dialogue, which is a necessary condition for any future agreement.
