On July 1, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation, their first direct communication since September 2022. Macron urged Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine "as soon as possible." He reiterated France's support for Ukraine's sovereignty.
The Kremlin confirmed the conversation, stating Putin blamed the West for the conflict. Putin indicated any peace agreement must be "comprehensive and long-term," addressing the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis and based on new territorial realities. They agreed to coordinate efforts and continue discussions.
Regarding Iran's nuclear program, Putin affirmed Iran's right to a peaceful nuclear program. Both leaders agreed that related conflicts in the Middle East should be resolved diplomatically and agreed to continue contact. These talks occur amidst rising regional tensions, including the recent conflict between Iran and Israel.