Russia’s defence minister speaks with US counterpart

Russia’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu held a phone call with US counterpart Lloyd Austin, the defence ministry said, a rare talk between Moscow and Washington since the start of the Ukraine conflict.

“Topical issues of international security, including the situation in Ukraine, were discussed,” Russia’s defence ministry said on Telegram without providing further details.

The previous telephone conversation between the Russian and US defense chiefs was held on May 13 and it also focused on Ukraine.