French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin held their first phone conversation in nearly three years on Tuesday (01.10.2025), discussing pressing global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and rising tensions in the Middle East. The Kremlin confirmed the two-hour call via the Russian news agency Interfax. According to the Élysée Palace, the leaders had not spoken since September 2022.
During the conversation, Putin reiterated his stance that the Ukraine conflict is a direct result of Western policies, as reported by the Russian news outlet TASS. He accused Western nations of building an ‘anti-Russian fortress’ in Ukraine over many years and prolonging military actions. Putin emphasized the need for a comprehensive resolution to the crisis, stating that deeper causes must be addressed based on realities on the ground.
The discussion also extended to the Middle East, particularly focusing on the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. Both leaders stressed the importance of respecting Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy use and fulfilling its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, in cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). They expressed support for resolving regional crises through diplomatic means rather than escalation.
Macron and Putin agreed to continue dialogue with the aim of aligning their positions on Middle Eastern affairs. They acknowledged the special responsibility both France and Russia hold as permanent members of the UN Security Council in maintaining international peace and security.