World
Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III’s Phone Call with Russian Defense Minister
Read about the recent phone call between Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III and the Russian Defense Minister to discuss important matters in international relations.
Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III had a phone conversation with Russia’s new defense minister, Andrei Belousov, on Tuesday, marking a significant communication between the Biden administration and Moscow. This rare discussion between the two officials occurred following the recent appointment of Mr. Belousov, an economist, to replace Sergei K. Shoigu as Russia’s defense minister in a Kremlin reshuffle in May.
Importance of Communication: During the call, Mr. Austin emphasized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication, especially in light of Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Pentagon press secretary, Maj. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder, highlighted that Mr. Austin initiated the call and stressed the significance of keeping communication channels active.
Preventing Miscalculations: The lack of communication between senior Russian military and defense officials and their American counterparts has raised concerns at the Pentagon regarding potential risks of miscalculations that could escalate tensions.