Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, held a phone call marking their first conversation in over two and a half years. Mr Macron reaffirmed France’s firm support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, urging a ceasefire to pave the way for a durable resolution to the conflict. In contrast, the Russian President blamed the war on the West’s long-standing disregard for Russia’s security concerns and its efforts to turn Ukraine into an anti-Russian stronghold.
According to the Kremlin readout, the two leaders also discussed Iran’s nuclear programme, just a week after a ceasefire ended the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran. Mr Macron proposed that Russia and France collaborate to reduce regional tensions. The discussion lasted over two hours, and both sides agreed to maintain communication on the situation in Ukraine and Iran.
