Trump Says He Rejected Putin's Offer to Help on Iran, Focused on Ukraine

Trump Rejects Putin's Iran Assistance Offer, Focuses on Ukraine

US President Donald Trump stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin offered assistance in addressing the conflict between Iran and Israel. However, Trump redirected the conversation to the war in Ukraine.

Putin's Offer and Trump's Response

"Vladimir called me up. He said, ‘Can I help you with Iran?’ I said, ‘No, I don’t need help with Iran. I need help with you'," Trump told journalists en route to the Nato summit.

Hopes for a Deal with Russia

Trump added that he hoped to strike a deal with Russia soon, noting battlefield losses in Ukraine.

NATO Summit and Defense Spending

Trump's comments coincided with his trip to the Nato summit in The Hague, where he is slated to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Nato allies are preparing to adopt a new defence spending pledge to ensure continued US support. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the plan as “historic.”

Uncertainty Regarding NATO Commitment

Trump's commitment to Nato's Article 5 mutual defence clause remains uncertain, stirring unease among Nato partners. He also criticized Spain for initially resisting the new defense spending plan.

Russia-Iran Cooperation

Trump’s overture to Putin comes as Russia continues to deepen its military and nuclear cooperation with Iran. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine’s position and said, “Russia must see that Ukraine will not be left alone and that Europe will not back down.”