Russian President Vladimir Putin has increased diplomatic efforts with U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Kremlin initiated a phone call on Thursday, following Trump's Middle East trip.
This marks Putin's eighth call with Trump in 2025, equaling meetings with other close allies.
Russia aims to address U.S. support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict.
Trump has expressed doubts about supplying Ukraine with Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Putin has held multiple discussions with Trump and his envoy, Steve Witkoff.
In August, Witkoff met Putin for three hours, leading to a summit in Alaska.
The Kremlin is exploring further high-level talks to discuss the Ukraine conflict.
Thursday’s call followed Trump’s threats to escalate military aid to Ukraine.
Russia seeks to maintain dialogue to delay or limit U.S. assistance to Ukraine.
No significant changes in U.S. policy have been confirmed following these talks.
Russia has proposed business ventures to appeal to Trump.
In February, Putin suggested U.S. companies develop aluminum and mine rare earth metals.
On Thursday, Kremlin envoy Kirill Dmitriev proposed a $8 billion rail tunnel project.
The 70-mile tunnel would connect Russia and Alaska, led by Elon Musk’s Boring Company.
“We also spent a great deal of time talking about Trade,” Trump posted after the call.
No agreements have been finalized, and Musk has not commented publicly.
The Kremlin’s proposals aim to foster U.S.-Russia ties but have not yet yielded deals.