Janice R. Andrews
Is the Ice Starting to Melt?
Few were surprised by the repeated promise to support Ukraine made at the end of the NATO 2024 Washington Summit. However, the world has taken notice of Russia’s surprising post-summit response.
Minister of Defence for Russia Interacts
Even though the Russian leadership made politically heated statements during the NATO meeting, something important happened afterwards. The Pentagon reports that after a protracted period of quiet, a key player in Moscow contacted his counterpart in Washington.
The Pentagon Offers Some Information
U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov had a conversation one day following the conclusion of the 2024 Washington Summit. A transcript of their call was made available by the Pentagon, which emphasised how crucial it was to stay in contact in the midst of Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
Keeping the Lines of Communication Open
Amidst Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, Belousov “emphasised the importance of maintaining lines of communication,” a significant step considering the recent absence of interaction, according to the Pentagon’s restricted information release.
Defence Minister’s Years of Silence
According to reports from The Hill, Austin last communicated by phone with his counterpart in Moscow on June 25th, which was almost two and a half weeks prior to their phone call following the NATO summit. There had not been any communication since March 2023.
Belousov Was Not at Fault for the Silence
Since Belousov assumed the position of Russian Minister of Defence only in May 2023, he cannot be held accountable for the apparent lack of communication between Moscow and Washington. Sergei Shoigu, his predecessor, was elevated to the position of Secretary of the Russian Security Council.
Ukraine’s Bad News Regarding Belousov
One thing was certain despite the controversy surrounding Shoigu’s promotion: Ukraine was concerned about Belousov’s selection as defence minister. As per the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, Belousov’s involvement indicated an emphasis on fortifying Russia’s industrial foundation in anticipation of the prolonged conflict.
Building a Robust Industrial Foundation for War
Although Belousov was not well-known when he was appointed, his involvement highlighted how crucial a strong industrial base was to Russia’s attritional conflict with Ukraine. The Centre for Strategic and International Studies researchers emphasised this crucial facet of Belousov’s knowledge.
Belousov’s Skill Was Sought Out
Belousov was probably chosen by President Vladimir Putin to lead the defence ministry because of his fervent support for central planning, which is essential for creating a robust wartime economy.
Anticipate Closer Integration
Researchers observed that under Belousov’s direction, “Russia’s defence industry can expect tighter integration with the Ministry of Defense’s vision of the future Russian armed forces,” suggesting a more coordinated strategy.
Establishing Communication Channels
Belousov did not immediately get in touch with Washington and establish communication, even after receiving a promotion. Russia and the U.S. relations were already extremely strained after the invasion of Ukraine, but this approach may have been spurred by the NATO meeting.
Russia May Have Been Concerned by the Summit
According to Ellen Mitchell of The Hill, NATO’s decision to release a communiqué detailing increased military spending, financial support, and a commitment to back Ukraine’s potential NATO membership seemed to have unnerved Moscow.
A Coalition Seeking Disagreement
NATO reaffirmed its fundamental principles with extreme clarity. Regarding the alliance’s intentions, Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for the Kremlin, said on July 12th, “It is an alliance founded in an era of confrontation with the aim of continuing confrontation.”
Travelling Near Russia’s Boundaries
In actuality, we observe that the military infrastructure of the alliance is steadily approaching our borders. To oppose and prevent the alliance, we will need to respond to all of this with consideration, coordination, and effectiveness,” Peskov continued.
How Ukraine Will Be Helped by NATO
Reuters reports that the Washington Summit Declaration specified how NATO will share some of the $43 billion assistance money that will be used to support Ukraine’s acquisition of weaponry and training.
Criticising China and Russia
The irresponsible nuclear war rhetoric by Russia and the placement of nuclear weapons in Belarus were also denounced in the Washington Summit Declaration. China was also criticised for being a “decisive enabler” of Russia’s continuous assault of Ukraine.
This unexpected contact between the United States and Russia may herald a new chapter in their relationship as the global landscape changes. We shall find out in the upcoming weeks and months if this contact was merely a diplomatic ploy or the beginning of a deeper conversation.
