WASHINGTON D.C
The U.S. Department of Defense said Monday night that it has halted all military-to-military relations with Russia.
Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said that although the Department of Defense finds value in the military-to-military relationship with the Russian Federation that has developed over the past few years to increase transparency, build understanding, and reduce the risk of military miscalculation, he said that "in light of recent events in Ukraine, they will put on hold all military-to-military engagements between the United States and Russia.”
Among the suspended activities are exercises, port visits, planning conferences and bilateral meetings.
Kirby called on Russia to deescalate the situation in Ukraine, and to withdraw its forces to their bases.
He denied reports that the U.S. military has begun to move ships in the region, adding that there has been no change to the U.S. military presence in Europe or the Mediterranean.
englishnews@aa.com.tr
