Defense Secretary Austin Speaks with Russian Defense Minister for First Time Urges Cease-Fire
We ran the numbers: There are 1372 news articles covering this topic. 23% (417) are left leaning, 46% (632) are center, and 31% (420) are right leaning.
On Friday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with his Russian Minister of Defense Sergey Shoygu by phone. While left-leaning articles highlight that the discussion occurred as Russia has expanded its military presence in Ukraine, right-leaning articles highlight that Russia’s Ministry of Defense said the two officials "discussed topical international security issues, including the situation in Ukraine."
A left-leaning article by The Washington Post highlights that the discussion occurred as Russia has expanded its military presence in Ukraine. Russia now has about 105 battalion tactical groups in Ukraine.
The Hill published a centrist article reporting that the call between Austin and his Russian counterpart is the first between the two officials since the Kremlin’s attack on Ukraine began in February. The Pentagon chief “urged an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and emphasized the importance of maintaining lines of communication.”
A right-leaning article by Fox News highlights that Russia’s Ministry of Defense said the two officials "discussed topical international security issues, including the situation in Ukraine." Pentagon press secretary John Kirby told Fox News that the Biden administration has been trying different avenues to reach the Kremlin, but to no avail.
From the left
Austin asks Russian defense minister for cease-fire in first talks since Ukraine invasion began
The Washington Post
From the center
Austin speaks with Russian counterpart for first time since start of war in Ukraine
The Hill