High-Stakes Talks: U.S. Defense Secretary and Russian Defense Minister Reconnect Amid Ukraine Conflict

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov engaged in a significant discussion, marking their second communication in two weeks amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Initiated by Russia, the conversation underscored the importance of maintaining open lines of communication, according to Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov spoke for a second time in just over two weeks on Friday, amid ongoing tensions over the war in Ukraine, the Pentagon confirmed.

The call, initiated by Russia, highlights a critical effort to keep lines of communication open during the Ukraine conflict, according to Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh. Austin stressed the necessity of continuous dialogue, more than two years after Russia's full-scale invasion.

Further details of the conversation were not disclosed by Singh.

(With inputs from agencies.)