US and Russia agree to resume high-level military-to-military dialogue
The United States and Russia have agreed to resume high-level military dialogue.
US European Command stated this channel of communication was suspended in autumn 2021, shortly before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The dialogue has been reestablished following meetings in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, between General Alexus Grynkewich, Commander of US European Command, and military officials from Russia and Ukraine.
"Maintaining dialogue between militaries is an important factor in global stability and peace, which can only be achieved through strength, and provides a means for increased transparency and deescalation," the statement reads.
US European Command added that the channel will provide consistent military-to-military contact as the parties continue to work towards a lasting peace.
Axios reported earlier that the US and Russia are close to reaching an agreement to extend the Treaty on Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms (New START).
A second round of trilateral talks between Ukrainian, Russian and US delegations began in the United Arab Emirates on 4 February. The Ukrainian delegation prepared a report on the outcome for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Rustem Umierov, the head of the Ukrainian delegation, said the Ukrainian team also plans a bilateral meeting with the US side, represented by US President's Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner. They are due to discuss the document on security guarantees and the "prosperity plan".
The trilateral talks in the United Arab Emirates come immediately after a large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine. Following the latest strikes, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that the work of the Ukrainian delegation at the peace talks would be adjusted.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, commenting on the Abu Dhabi talks on 4 February, said there is good news and bad news.