US and Russia agree to resume regular military contact

February 5, 2026

The United States and Russia have reached an agreement to restore high-level military communication channels that were suspended in 2021 before Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The deal emerged from meetings held in Abu Dhabi involving senior American and Russian military officials, occurring alongside broader discussions about the Ukrainian conflict. This military-to-military dialogue aims to prevent misunderstandings and dangerous escalations between the two nuclear superpowers, particularly after recent incidents involving aircraft and drones in contested airspace.

Who is affected

The United States and Russia (as the primary parties)
US General Alexus Grynkewich and senior Russian military officials
Ukrainian military officials (who participated in the Abu Dhabi talks)
NATO (as US forces operate within NATO structures in Europe)
Countries potentially impacted by US-Russia military tensions and nuclear proliferation

What action is being taken

The US and Russia are re-establishing high-level dialogue between their armed forces
US and Russian officials are negotiating regarding the New Start treaty
US Nuclear Experts are working on (or Trump has called for them to work on) a new, improved nuclear treaty

Why it matters

This agreement is significant because it reopens critical communication channels between the world's two largest nuclear powers after a three-year suspension, reducing the risk of dangerous military miscalculations and unintended escalation. The restoration of military dialogue provides a mechanism for transparency and de-escalation during a period of heightened tensions, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and various incidents involving military aircraft in contested areas. Additionally, the expiration of the New Start treaty without a replacement would leave both countries without any legal framework limiting their nuclear arsenals for the first time in half a century, making ongoing negotiations crucial for global security.

What's next

Regular dialogue between senior US and Russian military commanders will be established
The US and Russia will continue working towards a lasting peace (regarding Ukraine)
Potential negotiations on extending or replacing the New Start treaty (Russia has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue if the US responds positively)

Read full article from source: BBC