22:34

Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron held a telephone conversation.

Axar.az informs that the Kremlin press service reported on this.

Vladimir Putin told his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, that the Ukrainian conflict is a direct result of the policy of Western states:

"The West has been creating an anti-Russian base in Ukraine for many years and is now prolonging military operations. The settlement in Ukraine must be comprehensive; it is necessary to eliminate its root causes, and rely on realities."

The leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East in the context of the conflict between Iran and Israel and the US strikes on Iranian targets.

Putin and Macron stressed Iran's right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes and the importance of fulfilling its obligations on its nuclear program, including cooperation with the IAEA.

Both leaders agreed to continue contacts with a view to possible coordination of positions on the settlement in the Middle East.

The presidents noted the special responsibility of Russia and France, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, in maintaining peace and security.