In call, Netanyahu thanked Putin for helping secure release of hostage Sasha Troufanov

Lazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter

In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with freed Palestinian Islamic Jihad hostage Sasha Troufanov, during a meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow on April 16, 2025. (Sofia Sandurskaya/Pool/AFP)
In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with freed Palestinian Islamic Jihad hostage Sasha Troufanov, during a meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow on April 16, 2025. (Sofia Sandurskaya/Pool/AFP)

In his conversation today with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanks the Russian leader for his help in securing the release of Sasha Troufanov in February, The Times of Israel has learned. He also lays out Israel’s ongoing efforts to release the remaining hostages.

They spoke to mark Victory in Europe Day, says Netanyahu’s office, which is observed on May 8.

“The two leaders exchanged warm greetings on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II,” says the Israeli readout. “The prime minister emphasized the decisive contribution of the Red Army to the victory over the Nazis, and emphasized the importance of the many Jewish commanders and fighters in the war.”

The two veteran leaders also discuss “regional developments.”

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