Vladimir Putin congratulated Donald Trump on taking office and wished him every success in his work.The White House released this statement:
During the conversation, both sides expressed their readiness to make active joint efforts to stabilise and develop Russia-US cooperation on a constructive, equitable and mutually beneficial basis.
Mr Putin and Mr Trump had a detailed discussion of pressing international issues, including the fight against terrorism, the situation in the Middle East, the Arab-Israeli conflict, strategic stability and non-proliferation, the situation with Iran's nuclear programme, and the Korean Peninsula issue. The discussion also touched upon the main aspects of the Ukrainian crisis. The sides agreed to build up partner cooperation in these and other areas.
The two leaders emphasised that joining efforts in fighting the main threat - international terrorism - is a top priority. The presidents spoke out for establishing real coordination of actions between Russia and the USA aimed at defeating ISIS and other terrorists groups in Syria.
The sides stressed the importance of rebuilding mutually beneficial trade and economic ties between the two counties' business communities, which could give an additional impetus to progressive and sustainable development of bilateral relations.
Mr Putin and Mr Trump agreed to issue instructions to work out the possible date and venue for their meeting.
Donald Trump asked to convey his wishes of happiness and prosperity to the Russian people, saying that the American people have warm feelings towards Russia and its citizens.
Vladimir Putin, in turn, emphasised that the feeling is mutual, adding that for over two centuries Russia has supported the United States, was its ally during the two world wars, and now sees the United States as a major partner in fighting international terrorism.
The two leaders agreed to maintain regular personal contacts.
The conversation took place in a positive and constructive atmosphere.
"The positive call was a significant start to improving the relationship between the United States and Russia that is in need of repair. Both President Trump and President Putin are hopeful that after today's call the two sides can move quickly to tackle terrorism and other important issues of mutual concern."At least there's at least one good thing to come out of Trump's first week in office!
No I don't think there's a divorce. As long as Israel is under threat, as long as Israel is not secure, there's not a divorce. Halevai [would that it were so] we come to the day when there is peace - and if there is peace - that's when you are going to deal with the issue of divorce.The idea that Israel needs conflict in order to bind American Jews to it ties in with something the Israeli centrist politician Yair Lapid said at the same security conference at which Foxman spoke: Israel is now in a permanent war. "In this new world, in which we live, there is no longer any separation between days of peace and days of war."
Comment: See also: Trump Launches "Holy War against Radical Islam"