Hmmm: SecDef Austin, Russian defense minister Shoigu speak for first time since May

During the call, Austin “emphasized the importance of maintaining lines of communication amid the ongoing war against Ukraine,” said Pentagon spokesperson Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder.

This is only the second time the two have spoken since Russia’s February invasion of Ukraine. The first call was on May 13. During that conversation, Austin reportedly urged his Russian counterpart to consider a cease-fire, which Moscow ignored.

Before that May call, the two spoke on Feb. 18, six days before the invasion.

[Maybe Shoigu and Putin are looking for a way out? — Ed]