Macron, Putin Hold First Talks Since 2022 on Ukraine, Iran

French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin held their first phone conversation since 2022, addressing urgent global issues including Iran's nuclear program and the war in Ukraine. Macron stressed the shared responsibility of France and Russia as UN Security Council permanent members to ensure Iran complies with its nuclear obligations and called for diplomatic efforts to resolve Iran's nuclear and missile activities. He reaffirmed France's unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and urged a swift ceasefire and negotiations for a lasting resolution. Putin countered by blaming Western policies for the Ukraine conflict, accusing Western countries of ignoring Russia's security interests and prolonging hostilities by supplying weapons, and insisted any peace deal must consider new territorial realities and eliminate root causes. Both leaders agreed to coordinate efforts on Iran and maintain ongoing dialogue, emphasizing political and diplomatic means to resolve regional conflicts. The call marks renewed engagement between France and Russia amid ongoing tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East.