On a joyous day that saw the validation of Obamacare by the Supreme Court and the passage of key trade legislation, President Obama also received a phone call from Russian President Vladimir Putin, the White House said Thursday night.
Mr. Putin and Mr. Obama discussed the fight against the Islamic State, the crisis in Syria and other matters. During the call, Mr. Obama again called on Mr. Putin to de-escalate the situation in Ukraine and to stop any and all support for pro-Russian rebels still wreaking havoc in eastern parts of the country.
He told Mr. Putin to live up to cease-fire commitments Russia made months ago but has not abided by.
“President Obama reiterated the need for Russia to fulfill its commitments under the Minsk agreements, including the removal of all Russian troops and equipment from Ukrainian territory,” the White House said.
The two leaders also discussed nuclear negotiations with Iran. The deadline for the U.S., Russia and other international partners to secure a final deal with Tehran is June 30.
• Ben Wolfgang can be reached at bwolfgang@washingtontimes.com.
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