President Donald Trump has held a direct telephone conversation with Senator Elizabeth Warren, a prominent Democrat from Massachusetts, in an unusual moment of bipartisan engagement amid an otherwise polarised political climate in Washington.

According to officials familiar with the exchange, the call took place this week and was initiated by Mr. Trump, who sought a direct discussion rather than communicating through intermediaries.

The conversation was described as candid and wide-ranging, touching on economic conditions, financial markets and areas of potential legislative overlap.

While the two leaders have long been political opponents with sharply contrasting policy views, the call underscored the president’s willingness to engage directly with senior figures across the political spectrum when circumstances warrant.

Senator Warren later acknowledged the call, confirming that it took place and characterising it as a serious discussion rather than a symbolic gesture.

She indicated that disagreements remained, but noted that the exchange reflected a shared recognition of the need for dialogue at a time of economic uncertainty and heightened public scrutiny of federal policy decisions.

The outreach comes as the White House faces intense focus on financial markets, regulatory policy and the broader economic outlook.

Administration officials have said the president believes open lines of communication with lawmakers from both parties can help clarify positions and reduce misunderstandings, even where consensus is unlikely.

While no immediate policy outcomes were announced following the call, the direct contact itself marked a notable departure from standard partisan messaging and highlighted Mr. Trump’s preference for personal engagement as a tool of political leadership during moments of national and economic significance.