Vladimir Putin offers mediation in US-Iran conflict following failed talks in Islamabad

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss ongoing regional tensions. This communication occurred after 21 hours of negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad concluded without an agreement to end the ongoing war. The conflict, which began over six weeks ago, has resulted in thousands of deaths and significant global economic instability, including rising oil prices. Both US and Iranian officials have blamed each other for the diplomatic impasse, which currently threatens a fragile ceasefire. US Vice President JD Vance stated that the failure to reach an agreement is a negative outcome, suggesting it affects Iran more significantly than the United States. During the call, the Kremlin reported that Putin expressed readiness to act as a mediator to facilitate a diplomatic solution for a lasting peace in the Middle East. Russia remains positioned to support international efforts aimed at de-escalation. The outcome of these diplomatic developments remains uncertain as the military situation continues to affect global markets.