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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