Putin and Macron discuss Ukraine cease-fire, Iran nuclear deal in two-hour call

On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin held a “substantial” phone chat with French President Emmanuel Macron over the Middle East situation, including Iran and the Ukraine war, according to the Kremlin.

Macron’s office in Paris reported that the call lasted two hours and that the French leader requested a cease-fire in Ukraine as well as the commencement of peace talks.

According to the Kremlin press service, Putin stated that it was vital to respect Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy development as well as its continuous compliance with the nuclear non-proliferation pact.

Putin also told Macron that the war in Ukraine was “a direct consequence of the West’s policy,” which he said had “ignored Russia’s security interests” in recent years.

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According to the Kremlin, any potential peace accord between Russia and Ukraine should have a “comprehensive and long-term character” and based on “new territorial realities.”

Putin has already stated that any peace agreement must include Russia’s annexation of large portions of Ukraine’s land.

According to Macron’s office, the French president also emphasised the importance of Iran complying with its commitments under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and fully cooperating with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Macron and Putin agreed to coordinate their efforts and to speak again soon, the Elysee statement said.