US defense chief speaks to Russian counterpart via phone: Pentagon

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke with his Russian counterpart, Andrey Belousov, according to a Pentagon spokesman on Tuesday.

"During the call, the Secretary emphasized the importance of maintaining lines of communication amid Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine," Pat Ryder said at a news conference.

He said the last time Austin spoke to a Russian defense minister was with Sergey Shoygu on March 15, 2023.

A readout will be later issued.