Trump and Putin discuss fighting terror

“The positive call was a significant start to improving the relationship between the United States and Russia that is in need of repair,” the White House said.

In particular, the two talked addressed fighting the Islamic State threat in Syria during their hour-long conversation.

“The two leaders emphasized that joining efforts in fighting the main threat – international terrorism – is a top priority,” the Kremlin said in a statement.

They talked about the conflict in Ukraine, the Iran nuclear program and improving the U.S.-Russia relationship, according to the Kremlin.

While neither the Kremlin nor the White House not mentioned whether Trump and Putin specifically discussed lifting sanctions on Russia, the Kremlin statement did mention that the two leaders “stressed the importance of rebuilding mutually beneficial trade and economic ties between the two counties’ business communities.”

On Friday, Trump said during a press conference with United Kingdom Prime Minister Theresa May that it was “too early” to talk about lifting the sanctions, which the Obama administration put in place in response to the Russian takeover of Crimea and alleged involvement in destabilizing parts of Ukraine. But Trump’s adviser Kellyanne Conway, earlier in the day, mentioned that talk of sanctions would be “under consideration” for when Trump and Putin spoke.

Trump and Putin also discussed a time and a place for a future in-person meeting.

Trump’s call with Putin was one of a handful with world leaders listed on the president’s schedule for Saturday.

White House press secretary Sean Spicer shared a picture on Twitter of the president in the Oval Office, on the phone, surrounded by advisers and Vice President Mike Pence.