In the face of criticism that without a coherent Russia policy from the Trump administration, engagement with the Russians is a waste of time, it appears General Dunford is moving to establish some sort of common ground.

The Pentagon says the goal of the meeting is to focus on “the current state of U.S.-Russian military relations and the importance of consistent and clear military-to-military communication to prevent miscalculation and potential crisis.”

That relationship seems fraught with potentially dangerous disagreement, from provocative actions from both countries. The U.S. is moving greater numbers of ground forces into eastern Europe and conducting major naval exercises in the Black Sea as a direct counter to recent Russian aggression. Russia is simultaneously buzzing U.S. warships with fighter bombers and deploying a cruise missile in violation of a major U.S.-Russia arms treaty from the 1980’s.

Still, Vladimir Putin has signaled that he desires a positive relationship with the United States, at least when it comes to sharing intelligence, saying it is in “everyone’s best interests.” Until the political situation can be resolved, productive and clear communication between the U.S. and Russian militaries will be a crucial first step in avoiding unnecessary military conflict.

Image courtesy of the Department of Defense