Trump Updates on Iran War After Call with Putin, Claims Victory

Former President Donald Trump provided a significant update on the ongoing conflict in Iran following a recent phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This call, reportedly the first communication between the two leaders in 2026, took place on Monday evening. According to the Russian state agency TASS, topics discussed included the military operations in Iran, the war in Ukraine, and the situation in Venezuela.

After the conversation, Trump spoke with a US broadcaster, indicating that “Operation Epic Fury,” which involves coordinated strikes on Iranian targets by both Israel and the United States, may soon reach its conclusion. He stated, “I think the war is very complete, pretty much.” On CBS News, Trump elaborated on Iran’s military capabilities, asserting, “[Iran has] no navy, no communications, they’ve got no Air Force. Their missiles are down to a scatter. Their drones are being blown up all over the place, including their manufacturing of drones.”

The operation has reportedly resulted in the deaths of seven US service members, yet Trump characterized it as successful. He claimed that Iran has “nothing left” in terms of military strength, following US military operations that have targeted over 3,000 locations within a week. Notably, the first day of strikes, on February 28, 2026, led to the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the then leader of Iran. Following Khamenei’s death, his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, was declared the new Supreme Leader on Sunday.

Trump, who had previously expressed interest in influencing the selection of Iran’s new leadership, remarked that he had “no message” for the newly appointed Supreme Leader. The conflict with Iran has also elicited a series of counterattacks from Tehran against neighboring countries, including the UAE.

In response to Trump’s demand for Iran’s unconditional surrender, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected the ultimatum. He expressed regret for the Iranian attacks affecting surrounding nations, highlighting the complex and escalating nature of the conflict.

This latest development underscores the ongoing tensions in the region, with implications that extend far beyond the immediate military engagements. As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, weighing the impact of these actions on global stability and regional relations.