Putin and Macron Discuss Iran-Israel Conflict and Ukraine in Substantial Phone Call

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently had an important phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, which lasted for approximately two hours. This was their first direct interaction since September 2022. Macron’s office indicated that during the call, he urged for a ceasefire in Ukraine and emphasized the need to initiate negotiations to resolve the conflict. Macron had also kept Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky informed, speaking with him both before and after the discussion with Putin. Additionally, he briefed U.S. President Donald Trump about the conversation.

The Kremlin reported that Putin underscored the importance of recognizing Iran's right to develop nuclear energy peacefully and highlighted the need for Iran to adhere to its commitments under the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. Macron’s office noted that he considers the threat posed by Iran's nuclear ambitions significant enough to require action from all five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. He insisted that Iran must fully collaborate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), especially following their parliamentary approval to halt cooperation with the IAEA in response to military actions from Israel and the U.S. aimed at curtailing Iran's nuclear capabilities. Iran has consistently denied any intentions of developing nuclear weapons.

Macron indicated his commitment to achieving a diplomatic resolution concerning the nuclear situation, Iran's missile program, and its influence in the region. The two leaders agreed to synchronize their efforts in addressing these critical issues. As permanent members of the UN Security Council, both Russia and France have significant roles in global governance.

On the topic of Ukraine, Putin reiterated his stance that the ongoing war resulted from Western policies that disregarded Russia's security concerns. He argued that any potential peace agreement should reflect "new territorial realities" and include acceptance of Russia's annexations. In contrast, Macron reaffirmed Ukraine's right to determine its own stance on territorial compromises, expressing France's steadfast support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The office of the French President indicated a willingness for further discussions between Macron and Putin on both the Ukraine conflict and the situation regarding Iran. Prior to the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Macron had regularly communicated with Putin, including a visit to Russia shortly before military actions commenced.