Trump takes step to end Iran war he caused, calls Russian President, Putin
Meanwhile, the Trump administration is weighing options to reduce oil-related sanctions on Russia to increase global supply following disruptions in Middle Eastern shipments.
United States President Donald Trump has reportedly called his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on the telephone.
During the telephone conversation, they discussed the US-Israel caused war in Iran and prospects for peace in Ukraine.
The call was made on Monday March 10, 2026 as Washington considers easing sanctions on Russian oil to stabilize global energy markets.
According to the Kremlin, the two leaders held their first telephone conversation of the year, focusing on Russia’s proposals for a swift end to the conflict involving Iran, the military situation in Ukraine, and the impact of the crisis on global oil supplies.
Trump later described the call as positive, telling reporters that Putin wanted to help address the Iran conflict but that ending the war between Russia and Ukraine would be even more beneficial.
The discussion came amid volatility in global energy markets. Oil prices surged to their highest levels in more than three years earlier this week as fighting in the Middle East threatened shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies. Prices later eased as investors reacted to signs that tensions could de-escalate.
Earlier Monday, Putin warned that the war involving Iran could trigger a global energy crisis, cautioning that oil production dependent on transport through the Strait of Hormuz could be halted. Russia, the world’s second-largest oil exporter, said it was ready to resume long-term energy cooperation with European customers if they wished.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration is weighing options to reduce oil-related sanctions on Russia to increase global supply following disruptions in Middle Eastern shipments. Officials are considering both broad relief measures and targeted options that could allow certain countries, including India, to purchase Russian oil without facing U.S. penalties.
The United States has already granted India a temporary waiver to buy Russian crude that was already at sea, aiming to offset supply shortages caused by the conflict.
Trump said the U.S. may suspend certain oil sanctions to help lower prices, adding that U.S. naval forces and their partners could escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary.
The Kremlin said detailed discussions on lifting sanctions had not yet taken place but noted that both leaders understand the broader economic impact of restrictions on global markets.
