President Trump and President Putin held a nearly 90-minute phone call on July 4th, suggesting a potential shift in White House priorities. The conversation focused on finding a settlement to the crisis in Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, while the war in Ukraine appears to be escalating. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov stated that Trump reiterated his readiness to work towards ending the fighting in Ukraine. Russia is seeking a diplomatic resolution that considers its fundamental approach. However, Ushakov also criticized the Zelensky government and its European allies, accusing them of prolonging the conflict and engaging in terrorism. This accusation stems from Ukraine's drone strikes inside Russian territory that have damaged infrastructure and caused casualties. Ushakov also claimed that Russian forces are confidently advancing and liberating localities in Ukraine. Putin reportedly renewed an invitation for Trump to visit Russia for further bilateral dialogue. Trump had previously spoken with Ukrainian President Zelensky, who described the call as "very good" and expressed hope for an end to the war with crucial American resolve. Zelensky is expected to discuss these matters further with Trump at the upcoming NATO Summit. Zelensky highlighted the significant weapons and political support received from the United States. Both sides dispute the extent of Russian advances, with contradictory battlefield maps being issued.