US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation lasting more than 90 minutes, focusing on escalating tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

According to official statements, the discussion was described as “frank and businesslike,” with both leaders addressing key global security concerns. A major part of the conversation centred on the situation involving Iran and developments in the Persian Gulf.

Putin supported Trump’s decision to extend the ceasefire related to Iran, suggesting that continued restraint could create space for negotiations and help stabilise the region. However, he also issued a strong warning, stating that renewed military action by the United States or Israel could lead to “extremely damaging consequences” not only for Iran but for the wider international community.

Ukraine conflict also discussed

The leaders also discussed the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has continued for several years since Russia’s invasion in 2022. During the call, there were indications of potential efforts toward a temporary ceasefire, although no final agreement has been confirmed.

Reports suggest that the idea of a short-term pause in hostilities was explored, possibly linked to upcoming symbolic dates, but significant differences between the parties remain unresolved.

Focus on diplomacy amid global tensions

The call highlights ongoing diplomatic engagement between Washington and Moscow at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions involving both the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

While both sides acknowledged the importance of dialogue, the situation on the ground in both conflict zones remains complex, with no immediate resolution in sight.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is set to visit India in May to participate in a key meeting of foreign ministers from BRICS nations, according to an official announcement.

The visit is scheduled for May 14 and 15, during which Lavrov will attend the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi. The meeting is being held under India’s presidency and is expected to focus on major global issues, including strengthening international governance and enhancing cooperation among member nations.

On the sidelines of the multilateral engagement, Lavrov is also expected to hold bilateral discussions with India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The talks are likely to cover a wide range of issues, including bilateral relations, future diplomatic engagements, and preparations for upcoming intergovernmental commission meetings.

The BRICS meeting will serve as a platform for detailed discussions on pressing international matters and the evolving global order. It is also expected to play a role in shaping the agenda for the upcoming BRICS summit scheduled later this year in New Delhi.

Officials have indicated that the gathering will emphasize strengthening strategic partnerships and increasing the role of emerging economies in global decision-making processes. Participation from partner countries is also expected in select sessions.

Lavrov’s visit comes shortly after a recent telephonic conversation between him and Jaishankar, where both sides discussed regional developments and ways to expand cooperation between India and Russia.

Iran has proposed reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz under a three-condition plan, but the offer has been met with scepticism from the administration of Donald Trump, raising doubts over any immediate breakthrough in the ongoing conflict.

The proposal comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, with global energy markets closely watching developments around the key maritime route.

Iran’s three conditions for reopening Hormuz

According to reports, Iran has indicated it is willing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the United States agrees to:

• Lift its naval blockade on Iran and its ports
• End the ongoing conflict in the Middle East
• Postpone discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme to a later stage

The offer is seen as an attempt to ease tensions and restart diplomatic engagement, especially after weeks of disruption to global oil supplies due to restricted movement through the strait.

Why the US is not convinced

Despite the proposal, US officials have expressed reservations. President Donald Trump and his national security team are reportedly unconvinced, particularly because the plan delays talks on Iran’s nuclear programme.

Washington has consistently maintained that any agreement must directly address concerns about Iran developing nuclear weapons. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also indicated that a deal excluding nuclear commitments would not be acceptable.

Key sticking point remains nuclear issue

The central disagreement lies in sequencing. Iran wants to first ease military and economic pressure, while the US insists nuclear restrictions must be part of the initial agreement.

This gap has made progress difficult, with no clear roadmap emerging for a ceasefire or long-term resolution.

Global impact of Hormuz tensions

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global energy supplies. Any disruption or delay in reopening the route has immediate implications for oil prices and global trade stability.

With both sides holding firm on core demands, the path to a negotiated settlement remains uncertain.