As tensions continue over the military invasion of Ukraine, US Secretary of Defense Austin emphasized the importance of maintaining communication with Russian Defense Minister Shoigu in a telephone conversation that is believed to have been since May this year.
The Pentagon has announced that Secretary of Defense Austin spoke with Russian Defense Minister Shoigu on the phone on the 21st.
It is believed that the two will meet for the first time since May this year.
During the meeting, Austin reportedly stressed the importance of maintaining communication amid ongoing tensions over a Russian aggression.
"We discussed pressing international security issues, including the situation in Ukraine," the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement.
The United States and Europe are on high alert because the Russian military has repeatedly attacked Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, with missiles and drones, and President Putin has indicated that he is ready to use nuclear forces.
The Pentagon said Austin had a phone call with Ukrainian Defense Minister Reznikov on Wednesday and reaffirmed his continued support.