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U.S., Russian Defence chiefs speak for first time since invasion of Ukraine

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3 years ago

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U.S., Russian Defence chiefs speak for first time since invasion of Ukraine

After months of refusing direct contact with his American counterpart, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu spoke with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Friday. Officials said the call did not appear to signal a shift in Moscow’s Ukraine war strategy.

While Mr. Austin believes the hour-long conversation was important in keeping lines of communication open, a senior Defense Department official said Friday that it didn’t resolve any “acute issues” or result in any change in what the Russians are doing or saying as the war enters week 12.

Mr. Austin’s call was the highest level of American contact with a Russian official since the war began in late February. Russian leaders have repeatedly refused to take calls from Mr. Austin and Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, according to Pentagon officials.

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This is Mr. Austin’s first conversation with Mr. Shoigu since February 18, a week before the war began. Mr. Milley is also expected to communicate with his Russian counterpart, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, according to a senior official on Friday.

Mr. Austin “urged an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and emphasised the importance of maintaining lines of communication,” according to a Pentagon statement..

Several officials praised the call as a positive step forward, but said there was no clear reason why the Russians chose Friday to hold the conversation. The US hopes it will serve as a springboard for future discussions, according to the defence official, and it appears that Mr. Austin’s request for future communication was received. The official described the tone of the call as “professional,” but gave no other details about what was said.

Direct communication between the US and Russian defence and military leaders is essential to avoid misunderstandings and unwarranted escalation of hostilities. The US and Russia have also established a “deconfliction line” that the militaries can use in the event of an emergency or perceived threat to NATO allies in Ukraine. Although it has not been used, US officials claim that Russians have answered the phone during tests to ensure that it is functional.

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Russia’s fight in Ukraine, particularly the effort to wrest greater control over the eastern Donbas region, has been described as being more than two weeks behind schedule and failing to make consistent progress by US and other Western officials.

On Friday, Russian forces suffered heavy losses in a Ukrainian attack that destroyed a pontoon bridge they were using to try to cross a river in the east, according to Ukrainian, British, and US officials.

Ukraine’s airborne command released photos and video of a damaged Russian pontoon bridge and several destroyed or damaged Russian military vehicles near the Siversky Donets River. According to the command, the troops “drowned the Russian occupiers.”

The battle for the Donbass has turned into a daily grind as towns and villages change hands since Russia’s failed attempt to take Kyiv.

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

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3 weeks ago

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April 24, 2025

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

US Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their children visited the historical Amer Fort in Jaipur on April 22, 2025. The Vance family received a warm welcome at the Fort, where they were greeted with a traditional Rajasthani dance performance and elegantly decorated elephants. Second Lady Usha Vance, the wife of US vice president JD Vance, carries her daughter Mirabel as they watch a cultural performance at the Amber Fort in Jaipur.

Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer Fort in Jaipur. The Vance family will depart for the US early Thursday morning. In related news, JD Vance and wife Usha attended Good Friday service at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Vance also visited the Taj Mahal in Agra on April 23, 2025. Vance said that “good progress.

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In other news, Pope Francis’ funeral is set to start on Wednesday, and the J&K tourist hub has been completely shut today. On 4/20, celebrations across the US highlight cannabis culture and calls for legalization had been made towards a trade deal with India after meeting with “tough negotiator” Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The Vance family visited.

On April 22, 2025, US Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance, and their three children, visited Jaipur’s historic Amber Fort. The family received a warm welcome, highlighted by traditional Rajasthani folk performances and a red carpet reception. As they entered the fort’s main courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, they were greeted by two elegantly decorated elephants named Chanda and Mala, raising their trunks in greeting. ​

During their visit, the Vances were joined by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who guided them through the fort’s rich history and architectural marvels. The family also enjoyed cultural performances featuring traditional dances such as Kacchi Ghodi, Ghoomar, and Kalbeliya, offering a glimpse into the vibrant.

Usha Vance, dressed in a chic white shirt and patterned skirt, explored the fort alongside her family and dignitaries, embracing the cultural experience culture of Rajasthan This visit was part of Vice President Vance’s four-day official trip to India, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and India. The Vance family departed for Washington.

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Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer from Jaipur on April 24, concluding their cultural tour of India Upon their arrival at Amber Fort, the Vance family was greeted with traditional Rajasthani hospitality. Two elegantly decorated elephants, Chanda and Pushpa, adorned with silver ornaments, were stationed at the entrance welcome.

The family was also treated to a cultural performance featuring folk artists dressed in traditional Rajputi and Kalbelia attire, accompanied by musicians playing regional instruments. The vibrant rangolis and the overall festive atmosphere highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan The fort’s impressive courtyards and majestic structures.

Exploring the Fort’s Historical Significance

During their tour of Amber Fort, the Vance family explored various architectural marvels, including the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), known for its intricate mirror work and stunning design. They were accompanied by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who provided insights into the fort’s history and significance.​

Engaging with Local Culture

Throughout their visit, Vice President Vance demonstrated a keen interest in engaging with The Vance family’s visit to Amber Fort was part local culture. He interacted with the folk artists and expressed appreciation for the traditional performances, reflecting a genuine curiosity and respect for India’s diverse cultural heritage.​

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