Shoigu, Austin discuss situation in Ukraine - Russian Defense Ministry

MOSCOW/ WASHINGTON. May 13 (Interfax) - Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin have had a telephone call, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

"The parties discussed relevant aspects of international security, including the situation in Ukraine," it said.

The conversation took place at Austin's initiative, it said.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Defense Department said that Austin urged Shoigu to immediately cease fire in Ukraine.

"Secretary Austin urged an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and emphasized the importance of maintaining lines of communication," a statement issued by Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said.

This is the first conversation between U.S. and Russian defense chiefs since February 18, it said.