Pentagon chief talks to Russian counterpart for first time since Ukraine war began

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Pentagon chief talks to Russian counterpart for first time since Ukraine war began
By Kyle Rempfer
May 13, 01:34 PM
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin pauses while speaking during a media briefing at the Pentagon Nov. 17, 2021, in Washington. (Alex Brandon/AP)

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke with Russian Minister of Defense Sergey Shoigu on Friday after months of radio silence between the two countries’ military leaders, which the Pentagon has sought to end.

During the call, Austin discussed the potential for a ceasefire and emphasized his desire to keep talking with his Russian counterpart, according to the Pentagon. It was the first time Austin and Shoigu had spoken since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24.

Pentagon chief talks to Russian counterpart for first time since Ukraine war began
By Kyle Rempfer
May 13, 01:34 PM
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin pauses while speaking during a media briefing at the Pentagon Nov. 17, 2021, in Washington. (Alex Brandon/AP)

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke with Russian Minister of Defense Sergey Shoigu on Friday after months of radio silence between the two countries’ military leaders, which the Pentagon has sought to end.

During the call, Austin discussed the potential for a ceasefire and emphasized his desire to keep talking with his Russian counterpart, according to the Pentagon. It was the first time Austin and Shoigu had spoken since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24.