U.S. and Russian Defense Ministers Speak by Phone

Oct. 21, 2022 (EIRNS)—Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke by phone today, initiated by Washington, according to TASS. The Russian readout reported that “They discussed international security problems, notably the situation in Ukraine.” The Pentagon readout was equally terse. “Secretary Austin emphasized the importance of maintaining lines of communication amid the ongoing war against Ukraine,” it said. It was the first time the two had spoken since May.

Austin also spoke with Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov to “reiterate the unwavering U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine’s ability to counter Russia’s aggression.” Austin also “underscored the international community’s continued support in building Ukraine’s enduring strength and safeguarding Ukraine’s ability to defend itself in the future, as demonstrated by the security assistance commitments made by allies and partners at the most recent Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting on Oct. 12,” referring to his meetings at the U.S. Ramstein Air Base in Germany.