Commentary by Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov following Vladimir Putin’s telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump

Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov Ushakov YuryAide to the President : President of Russia Vladimir Putin telephoned the US President today to extend birthday greetings on his 80^th birthday. The conversation was friendly and candid, lasting just under an hour - 55 minutes to be precise.

As you might expect, it was not merely an exchange of pleasantries. President Trump Trump DonaldPresident of the United States of America heard more than kind words and good wishes: the leaders also discussed key issues relating to the current international situation, the development of Russia-US relations, and possible future contacts between representatives of both sides.

As for the greetings, they were informal and reflected the nature of the personal relationship between the two leaders. The Russian President made no secret of his respect for Donald Trump's fighting spirit, his ability to withstand blows, successfully overcome obstacles, and persistently pursue his goals.

Incidentally, the Russian President also sent a birthday message in which he highlighted the exceptional character traits of the man he was honouring - traits that contribute to his success both as a person and as a politician. Donald Trump was touched by the remarks and thanked Vladimir Putin, noting that he was the first foreign leader to call him at the White House.

I would like to emphasise again that the conversation was informal and, I might add, not without a touch of humour. I will even let you in on a secret: Donald Trump is not entirely thrilled by the number 80, as he is full of energy and vigour.

I should also mention that Vladimir Putin naturally extended his best wishes to First Lady Melania Trump, praising her role in reuniting Russian and Ukrainian children with their families. Donald Trump, in turn, conveyed his wife's greetings and gratitude for the assistance she had received from Russia.

To conclude the ceremonial congratulatory part of my remarks, I will note that Vladimir Putin thanked Donald Trump for his warm congratulatory message on Russia Day, which expressed respect for the Russian people.

Naturally, the conversation also touched on the situation surrounding the memorandum of understanding being drafted between the United States and Iran. Donald Trump said an agreement was close and expressed hope that the results of the difficult but ultimately successful negotiations could be announced today. He acknowledged that the road to agreement had been arduous, with many obstacles encountered - and not only from the Iranian leadership. Ultimately, however, the efforts of American negotiators, with the assistance of Pakistani and Qatari mediators, produced an acceptable outcome. Mr Trump expressed gratitude for Russia's involvement and, in particular, for its proposals aimed at finding constructive solutions.

To be continued.