Minsk: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko discussed cooperation in trade, defense, and regional security during a recent phone call, Belarus' presidential press service reported. The discussion also covered preparations for upcoming joint events and continued coordination between Moscow and Minsk.

According to Anadolu Agency, the talks occurred a few days after Putin and Lukashenko met at the Kremlin on May 8, in anticipation of Russia's Victory Day celebrations, which commemorate the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. During their meeting, the leaders focused on economic and trade cooperation, with Putin noting that bilateral trade had reached record levels 'despite all the difficulties.'

Russia and Belarus have been strengthening their political, economic, and military ties in recent years. This collaboration comes amid increased tensions with the West over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.