Berlin, September 18 (QNA) - German Chancellor Friedrich Merz discussed developments in the Middle East, including the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, as well as the latest developments concerning the war in Ukraine, during a phone call with US President Donald Trump.

German government spokesperson Steffen Cornelius said in a statement that the two sides stressed the need to expedite steps to reopen shipping lanes in the Red Sea.

They also exchanged views on possible steps and measures to achieve peace in Ukraine. (QNA)