Exclusive: Defense ministers of Russia and the United States talk to each other

International•Jun 26 ’24 at 05:44Author of the books: BNR Web Editors and ANP

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Russian Prime Minister Andrey Pelusov on Tuesday, the Pentagon reported. “The two sides exchanged views on the war in Ukraine,” the Russian Defense Ministry wrote in a telegram.

On Monday, the Russian government threatened the United States with “retaliation” after the Ukrainian attack on Russia-annexed Crimea. (ANP/Associated Press)

On Monday, the Russian government threatened the United States with “retaliation” after the Ukrainian attack on Russia-annexed Crimea. The attack was carried out by American missiles. “Of course, the direct involvement of the United States in attacks that led to the deaths of Russian citizens cannot be without consequences,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

During Tuesday’s call, Austin stressed the importance of maintaining communications amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder said. He did not provide further details about the phone conversation.

Increase

Pelusov pointed to the risk of escalation of war as US arms deliveries to Ukraine continue. Other issues were also discussed, the ministry added, without naming those issues.

It was the first time the two talked to each other. Austin last spoke to his Russian counterpart in March 2023. At that time, Sergei Shoigu was still the Minister of Defense.