On his birthday, President Trump had a phone call with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, and the bulk of their conversation revolved around Israel’s recent strike on Iran. While the details of their discussion weren’t fully disclosed, the timing and topic highlight the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East—and how the U.S. and Russia navigate them.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a casual birthday chat—it’s a reminder of how high-stakes diplomacy often happens behind the scenes. With Israel and Iran’s escalating conflict as the backdrop, the call underscores how major powers like the U.S. and Russia are constantly maneuvering in a volatile region. Even small interactions between leaders can hint at bigger strategic moves.