U.S. President Donald Trump has revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin offered to mediate the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, according to a report by Fox News.
“Vladimir called me up. He said, ‘Can I help you with Iran?’ I said, ‘No, I don’t need help with Iran. I need help with you,’” Trump said. “And I hope we’re going to be getting a deal done with Russia. It’s a shame—six thousand soldiers died last week.”
Trump’s comment appeared to shift attention back to the ongoing war in Ukraine, indirectly referencing the high casualty toll and signaling that resolving Russia’s involvement in that conflict is a more pressing priority than seeking Russian mediation in the Middle East.
Just days prior, Trump expressed similar sentiments, stressing that any serious engagement with Moscow would have to begin with an end to hostilities in Ukraine. Only after that, he suggested, could Russia be considered for a mediating role in the Israel-Iran standoff.
Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War noted that Putin’s offer may be a calculated move to divert global focus from the war in Ukraine. They argue the Kremlin is attempting to reposition itself as a diplomatic powerbroker despite its military aggression in Eastern Europe.
While Trump acknowledged the idea of Putin acting as a mediator in the Middle East, he made it clear that Russia’s military actions remain the core issue.
Volodymyr Fesenko, a political analyst speaking to RBC-Ukraine, described Putin as being “caught in a bind,” trying to maintain influence with both Tehran and Washington while deflecting international scrutiny of Russia’s actions.
Trump also announced a temporary ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran earlier today. However, tensions quickly reignited after Israel reported renewed rocket fire from Iranian territory.
Before heading to the Alliance summit, Trump delivered a blunt critique of the situation: “They don’t know what the f*** they’re doing,” he said, referring to both nations involved. He went on to say he was “unhappy” with both Israel and Iran—and added pointedly that he was “really unhappy” with Israel in particular.
