Russia's Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov commented to Russian reporters on the Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby's statement on the decision to suspend cooperation with the Russian military over the current situation in Ukraine. "We have taken note of this statement, as well as statements made by highly-placed military officials from other countries," Antonov said.
"Our position is that any interaction, especially along the lines of the military, may only be mutually advantageous and based on the principle of strict parity. Such an approach can produce neither winners, nor losers," he said. "We think that communication between the military enhances mutual trust and makes intents and actions clearer. Ultimately, moves made by either side become more predictable and state security is enhanced," Antonov said.
"Concerning the Pentagon's decision, it is the American side's choice. We have taken note of it," he said. It was reported earlier that the US Department of Defense (DoD) froze military cooperation, including exercises, bilateral meetings, port visits and planning conferences, with Russia over the situation in Ukraine.
"We have, in light of recent events in Ukraine, put on hold all military-to-military engagements between the United States and Russia," DoD press secretary Rear Adm. John Kirby said in a statement, noting that he values military cooperation with Russia that has developed in recent years to increase transparency, build understanding and reduce the risk of military miscalculation.
"We call on Russia to de-escalate the crisis in Ukraine and for Russian forces in Crimea to return to their bases, as required under the agreements governing the Russia Black Sea Fleet," he added. At the same time, there has been no change in US posture in Europe nor the Mediterranean Sea, he said.
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