The D Brief: Russian military leaders, wanted; Ukraine’s deep strikes; Defense-spending veto threat; New supply-chain issues; And a bit more.
Defense OneJun 22
US Defense Secretary Has First Call With New Russian Counterpart
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The Facts
The US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday had his first call with his Russian counterpart Andrei Belousov, appointed to his post in May.
According to a Pentagon readout of the call, Austin "emphasized the importance of maintaining lines of communication amid Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine."
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
As Russia continues its illegal invasion of Ukraine, the US defense secretary made this call to ensure that lines of communication stay open to avoid a miscalculation on either side that could lead to devastating consequences.
Pro-Russia narrative
During the call with the American defense secretary, Belousov stressed that the continued supply of weaponry to Ukraine is leading to a dangerous escalation. Last week's attack on Crimea with US weapons — killing four and injuring more than 150 — was given as an example of this.
