Plague Lab Death: Russia Open to Trump-Putin Call

“Fears that pneumonic plague was the cause have prompted calls for transparency. Moscow has historically treated transparency like a houseguest it never invited.” — Gloria Vance, on air

On air: Gloria Vance and Hank Ledger on After the Bell
Published 4:21 PM ET, Wednesday, October 7, 2026

At a glance

First reported by BBC: “Trump to speak to Putin about plague lab worker's death in Russia”, with reporting from The New York Times.
Covered on BBN on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 4:21 PM ET on After the Bell, by Gloria Vance and Hank Ledger; aired 2 times.
Topics: Putin, Russian, Russia, Trump.
BBN covered this story before: Investors Flee Emerging Markets; Trump Plans Putin Call (October 7).

The real story

The reporting behind this segment. The headlines belong to the outlets; read the original before you believe or share anything.

BBCTrump to speak to Putin about plague lab worker's death in Russia
The New York TimesFears of a Plague Outbreak in Russia: What to Know

What BBN said about it

Gloria Vance · World News AnchorNew tonight: the BBC reports Trump will speak to Putin about a plague lab worker's death in Russia.
Gloria Vance · World News AnchorCBS News says Russia is open to a call.
Gloria Vance · World News AnchorThe New York Times says authorities aren't saying much, and experts say any risk of contagion would be limited.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorSo a lab that studies plague has a death, and the official comment is a shrug. That's not reassuring, Gloria. That's a locked door.
Gloria Vance · World News AnchorFears that pneumonic plague was the cause have prompted calls for transparency. Moscow has historically treated transparency like a houseguest it never invited.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorI once got a company memo with more detail than that. It was about the microwave. Is it safe to say we don't know yet?