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Trump says he discussed a Ukraine ceasefire with Putin

Trump says he discussed a Ukraine ceasefire with Putin

By Trevor Hunnicutt and Steve Holland WASHINGTON, April 29 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he discussed a possible ceasefire in the four-year war in Ukraine in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
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President Trump Discusses Potential Cease-Fire in Ukraine with Putin

President Trump Discusses Potential Cease-Fire in Ukraine with Putin

President Trump has indicated that a temporary cease-fire in Ukraine may be on the horizon following discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The conversation, which also touched on the conflict in Iran, suggests that a cease-fire could be announced by Victory Day next month. Trump expressed optimism about reaching a resolution, highlighting the potential for a cease-fire to pave the way for a permanent end to the war. The Trump administration has been actively working to mediate the conflict, which has persisted for over four years, becoming the deadliest in Europe since World War II.
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Germany's Merz says relations with Trump are good despite spat over Iran

Germany's Merz says relations with Trump are good despite spat over Iran

BERLIN, April 29 (Reuters) - German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday his relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump remained good despite a row between the two men over the Iran war, but he reiterated his worries over the economic impact of the conflict.
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Russia says it's scaling down WW2 victory parade due to Ukrainian threat

Russia says it's scaling down WW2 victory parade due to Ukrainian threat

By Mark Trevelyan LONDON, April 29 (Reuters) - Russia will hold a slimmed-down version of its annual parade to celebrate victory in World War Two, without the usual display of weaponry, the Kremlin said on Wednesday, citing an increased threat of Ukrainian attacks.
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Analysis-Mali turmoil threatens Russian push for influence and mineral wealth in Africa

Analysis-Mali turmoil threatens Russian push for influence and mineral wealth in Africa

By Andrew Osborn and Anna Peverieri MOSCOW, April 29 (Reuters) - A series of reversals suffered by Mali's Moscow-backed military government has dented Russia's image as a self-styled security guarantor in Africa and threatens its strategic and economic interests on the continent.
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President Trump and President Putin Discuss Ukraine Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Conflict

President Trump and President Putin Discuss Ukraine Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Conflict

President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin recently engaged in a telephone conversation primarily focused on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. During the discussion, President Trump expressed that the conversation was productive, highlighting that President Putin had been ready to negotiate a deal regarding Ukraine for some time. However, Trump suggested that external factors have complicated the negotiation process. The conversation also touched on other geopolitical issues, including the situation in Iran. According to Russian official Yuri Ushakov, both leaders acknowledged that Ukraine, with European support, is prolonging the conflict. The dialogue underscores the complex diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Russia, particularly concerning the military operations in Ukraine.
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Iran's highly enriched uranium likely is still at the Isfahan site, UN nuclear chief tells AP

Iran's highly enriched uranium likely is still at the Isfahan site, UN nuclear chief tells AP

The head of the U.N. nuclear agency says the majority of Iran’s highly enriched uranium is still believed to be at its Isfahan nuclear complex
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US and Iran clash over Tehran's nuclear program as review of atomic treaty begins at UN

US and Iran clash over Tehran's nuclear program as review of atomic treaty begins at UN

The United States and Iran have clashed over Tehran’s nuclear program as a review of the treaty meant to prevent the spread of atomic weapons got underway at the United Nations
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US-Iran Peace Talks Stalled as Iranian Diplomacy Shifts to Russia

US-Iran Peace Talks Stalled as Iranian Diplomacy Shifts to Russia

U.S.-Iran peace negotiations have hit a stalemate as Iran's foreign minister seeks support from Russia. President Trump has indicated that Iran can reach out to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict, which has affected energy supplies from the region. Iran's latest proposal suggests setting aside nuclear discussions until the war ends and shipping disputes are resolved, a stance unlikely to satisfy the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed skepticism about Iran's intentions, suggesting they are attempting to delay negotiations. Despite the lack of face-to-face diplomacy, mediation efforts continue, with Iran's foreign minister visiting Russia to garner support.
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Iran Seeks Russian Mediation in U.S. Nuclear Standoff Amid Ongoing Blockade

Iran Seeks Russian Mediation in U.S. Nuclear Standoff Amid Ongoing Blockade

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is in Russia to discuss potential mediation in the ongoing U.S.-Iran nuclear standoff. The visit is part of Iran's broader strategy to engage multiple international actors to resolve the conflict. The U.S. has extended a ceasefire, but a permanent resolution remains elusive. Russia's involvement is seen as crucial, given its past role in facilitating nuclear agreements. Iran is seeking to leverage Russia's influence to address the issue of its enriched uranium stockpile, a major sticking point in negotiations. The visit underscores Iran's efforts to internationalize the conflict resolution process.
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U.S. Military Spending Decreases Amid Global Rise in Defense Expenditures

U.S. Military Spending Decreases Amid Global Rise in Defense Expenditures

In 2025, the United States saw a 7.5% decrease in military spending, bringing its total to $954 billion. This reduction was primarily due to the cessation of new financial military aid to Ukraine, contrasting with the previous three years where $127 billion was allocated. Despite this decrease, the U.S. continued to invest in nuclear and conventional military capabilities to maintain its strategic dominance. Globally, military spending increased by 2.9% to $2.89 trillion, marking the 11th consecutive year of growth. This rise was driven by significant increases in Europe and Asia, with European spending up by 14% and Asian spending by 8.1%.
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Iran Proposes to End Strait of Hormuz Blockade Amidst Tensions with U.S.

Iran Proposes to End Strait of Hormuz Blockade Amidst Tensions with U.S.

Iran has proposed to end its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint, without addressing its nuclear program. This proposal was communicated to the United States through Pakistan, amidst ongoing tensions involving Iran, the U.S., and Israel. Iran's foreign minister is currently in Russia for consultations, seeking to negotiate terms that would include lifting the U.S. blockade on Iran. President Trump has expressed skepticism, emphasizing the need for Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions as part of any agreement. The proposal comes as part of broader diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional conflicts and stabilize global oil markets.