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Putin and Macron Hold First Phone Call in Years, Clash Over Ukraine and Iran
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Russian leader Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron held a rare phone conversation on July 1, marking their first direct contact since 2022.
According to the Kremlin, the discussion covered a range of international security issues, including the war in Ukraine and ongoing instability in the Middle East.
The Russian readout stated that both leaders addressed the conflict between Israel and Iran, particularly in the context of recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure.
Putin and Macron reportedly emphasized the importance of diplomacy in resolving the crisis and underscored the need to uphold the global non-proliferation regime.
They also reaffirmed the right of Tehran to pursue peaceful nuclear energy within the framework of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and continue cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
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On Ukraine, Putin repeated Russia’s longstanding position that the war was triggered by what he called “years of Western disregard for Russia’s security concerns” and the creation of an “anti-Russian foothold” in Ukraine.
He also claimed that Western countries are prolonging the war and stated that any resolution must take into account the “realities on the ground.”
The Kremlin described the exchange as “substantive” and noted that both leaders acknowledged the responsibility of Russia and France—as permanent members of the UN Security Council—in maintaining global peace and stability.
No statement about the call has been released by the Élysée Palace at the time of reporting.
The two presidents reportedly agreed to maintain communication regarding diplomatic efforts in the Middle East and other global security matters.
In April, France officially elevated Ukraine to a top priority in its foreign policy, emphasizing support for Ukrainian sovereignty and reconstruction amid ongoing war. The Élysée Palace stated that this strategic shift reflects France’s commitment to global stability and will guide its international partnerships moving forward.
