Trump, Putin discuss Syria, North Korea in 1-hour phone conversation
Unlike previous US Presidents, Donald Trump has publicly expressed his appreciation and admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin. The White House said both leaders recently spoke over phone for about an hour and discussed subjects of international concern, including Syria, North Korea, Iran, and Ukraine. The call comes amid an investigation into the Trump team's alleged collusion with Russia to win the presidential election.
Trump and Putin hit it off at APEC summit
Trump and Putin met each other during the recently concluded Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Vietnam. While there was no formal meeting between the leaders, the two reportedly had warm words for each other as they crossed paths thrice. After the summit, Trump vouched for good relations with Russia. Both leaders also discussed matters, including the resolution of the Syrian conflict.
Are US, Russia working together to resolve the Syrian conflict?
Trump's phone-call with Putin came a day after the latter met Syrian leader Bashar-al-Assad, ahead of an upcoming Russia-Iran-Turkey summit meeting. The Kremlin said Putin and Assad discussed wrapping up military operations to enable political processes to be launched in Syria. There is no official word from the White House. It's possible the US could likely be working through Putin to communicate with Assad.
US-Russia cooperation may have a tough road ahead
US and Russia, as two major world powers, can definitely pitch in to rebuild a war-torn Syria. However, they differ on their visions on a post-conflict Syria. While the US has reservations against Assad remaining in power, Russia backs him. Moreover, Trump is facing an investigation back home on the alleged Russian interference in US elections. This is likely to negatively impact US-Russia cooperation.
