By: IndoUS Tribune News Desk

Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone conversation on Saturday, discussing the Ukraine conflict, bilateral relations and prospects for future cooperation as the United States celebrated the 250th anniversary of its Independence Day.

According to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, Putin congratulated Trump on the historic occasion before the two leaders held what he described as a “business-focused and highly constructive” discussion covering key international and bilateral issues. Ushakov said it was the fourth telephone conversation between the two presidents this year.

During the call, Putin outlined Russia’s assessment of the battlefield in Ukraine, stating that Russian forces continue to advance along the front lines. Ushakov also claimed that European governments have an inaccurate understanding of the military situation on the ground.

The two leaders also discussed the future of U.S.-Russia relations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dialogue on political, security and economic matters. According to the Kremlin, Trump reiterated that an early resolution of the Ukraine conflict would help create conditions for broader cooperation between Washington and Moscow.

Ushakov also accused Ukraine and its European allies of prolonging the conflict, alleging that Kyiv’s recent long-range attacks on Russian energy infrastructure had contributed to fuel shortages in several Russian regions.

Separately, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could meet Putin in Moscow if he is prepared to make what Russia described as “important and responsible decisions.” Peskov was responding to Zelensky’s earlier suggestion of holding talks in Kostiantynivka, stating that Moscow remains the appropriate venue for such a meeting.

The latest conversation reflects ongoing diplomatic contacts between Washington and Moscow despite continued tensions over the war in Ukraine and broader geopolitical differences.