Russian presidential aide: Putin and Trump spoke by phone to discuss the situation in the Middle East and the Ukraine issue.

On March 9, local time, Russian Presidential Aide Ushakov stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump spoke by phone that day. Ushakov said the call, initiated by the US side, lasted approximately one hour and was pragmatic, frank, and constructive. The focus of the call was the situation in the Middle East related to Iran and the negotiation process regarding Ukraine. On the situation in Iran, the two sides had specific and beneficial communication, with Putin calling for a swift return to political and diplomatic channels to resolve the conflict. Regarding Ukraine, Putin stated that the Russian armed forces were making good progress in special military operations, which should encourage Ukraine to accelerate the mediation process. Trump reiterated his hope for a swift ceasefire by the conflicting parties and expressed the US's willingness to participate in the mediation of the Ukraine issue long-term. Ushakov also stated that the two presidents discussed related issues, including the situation in Venezuela, and both sides expressed their willingness to maintain regular communication. (CCTV News)