The Pentagon emphasized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication, while the Kremlin focused on reducing the risk of escalation during recent talks. The Russian Ministry of Defense initiated a phone call with Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin following the NATO summit in Washington. The discussions centered on preventing security threats and potential escalation.
During the call, Secretary Austin stressed the significance of communication amidst Russia’s conflict with Ukraine. The last conversation between the two officials occurred on June 25, with the previous one dating back to March 2023. The Pentagon confirmed the call was initiated by Russia, highlighting the ongoing importance of communication.
Relations between the US and Russia have strained since Moscow’s military operation in Ukraine. The recent call followed Ukraine’s plea to NATO to lift restrictions on striking Russian targets. NATO members, including the US, have shown a shift in attitude towards supporting Ukraine against Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned of escalation if longer-range missiles are deployed. The US and Germany announced plans to deploy long-range fires in Germany, including SM-6, Tomahawk missiles, and hypersonic weapons. The Pentagon maintains its policy of allowing cross-border strikes when necessary but has not authorized deep strike capabilities within Russia.
Tensions between Russia and NATO have increased over missile deployment in Germany, prompting the Kremlin to vow a military response. The situation remains fluid as both sides navigate the complexities of the conflict. Can you rewrite this sentence?
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