Merz and Trump discuss Ukraine war and Middle East tensions

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and US President Donald Trump held a phone call to discuss efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the situation in the Middle East, Report informs, citing German government spokesman Stefan Kornelius.

The leaders also commemorated the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, whose 25th anniversary was marked last week.

"Both interlocutors remembered the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The Chancellor emphasized the special relationship between Germans and Americans," Kornelius told journalists.

The spokesman said Merz and Trump exchanged views on further steps aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

"Chancellor Merz welcomed the adoption by Congress of the Lindsey Graham Act concerning sanctions against Russia," Kornelius said.

The two leaders also discussed developments involving the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.