Ukraine Enters a Dark New Era of Drone Warfare
WiredDec 31, 2022
Day 241: US and Russia Defense Ministers Hold Rare Talks; UN Says Over 15K Civilian Casualties in Ukraine
Image copyright: AFP / Getty Images [via CNN]
The Facts
In a call reportedly initiated by the US, the country's Defense Sec. Lloyd Austin held a rare conversation with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Shoigu, on Friday. It was only their second call since Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the pair's first since May 13.
Details from either government were scant, but both confirmed they discussed the conflict in Ukraine. A US military spokesperson said: "Sec. Austin emphasized the importance of maintaining lines of communication amid the ongoing war against Ukraine."
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
US commitment to Ukraine remains unwavering. The Biden administration will never accept Russia's illegal annexation of four territories and will do everything in its power to help Ukraine restore its land in the face of Russian aggression.
Establishment-critical narrative
After nearly eight months of war, it's time for the US to rethink its course in Ukraine. Pledges to fight Russia for as long as it takes aren't in the US's interest and don't serve its real intention of de-escalation, détente, and peace.
Metaculus Prediction
Go Deeper
Establishment split
CRITICAL
PRO
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